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Published on: May 30, 2019
Temporal Dynamics of 'Ca. Phytoplasma mali' Load in the Insect Vector Cacopsylla melanoneura
Valentina Candian1, Monia Monti1, Rosemarie Tedeschi1
1Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari (DISAFA), University of Torino, Largo P. Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco (TO), Italy.
Abstract:
The transmission of phytoplasmas is the result of an intricate interplay involving pathogens, insect vectors and host plants. Knowledge of the vector's competence during its lifespan allows us to define more sustainable well-timed control strategies targeted towards the most worrisome life stages. We investigated the temporal dynamics of 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali' load in Cacopsylla melanoneura in the different developmental stages in Northwest Italy. The phytoplasma load in the vector was evaluated in overwintering adults, nymphs and newly emerged adults after different acquisition access periods. Moreover, we followed the multiplication of the phytoplasma during the aestivation and the overwintering period on conifers. Our results confirmed the ability of remigrants to retain the phytoplasma until the end of winter. We also highlighted the high acquisition efficiency and vector competence, based on phytoplasma load, of nymphs and newly emerged adults. Therefore, particular attention should be paid to the management of overwintered C. melanoneura as soon as they return to the orchards, but also to newly emerged adults, particularly in orchards with a high infection rate and when the migration to conifers is delayed.
Insights
Managing the insect vector Cacopsylla melanoneura is key to controlling phytoplasma diseases. Nymphs and new adults show high infection efficiency, requiring targeted control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Plant pathology
- Entomology
- Agricultural science
Background:
- Phytoplasma transmission involves pathogens, insect vectors, and host plants.
- Understanding vector competence across life stages is crucial for sustainable control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal dynamics of 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali' load in the insect vector Cacopsylla melanoneura.
- To evaluate vector competence across different developmental stages and periods.
Main Methods:
- Quantified phytoplasma load in overwintering adults, nymphs, and newly emerged adults of C. melanoneura.
- Assessed phytoplasma acquisition after different access periods.
- Monitored phytoplasma multiplication during aestivation and overwintering on conifers.
Main Results:
- Remigrant vectors retained 'Candidatus Phytoplasma mali' until late winter.
- Nymphs and newly emerged adults exhibited high acquisition efficiency and vector competence.
- Phytoplasma load dynamics were observed throughout the vector's lifespan and overwintering.
Conclusions:
- Overwintering C. melanoneura adults are important reservoirs and should be managed upon return to orchards.
- Newly emerged adults are highly competent vectors, necessitating control, especially in high-infection areas.
- Timing vector control strategies based on life stage competence can improve phytoplasma management.
