Biology, Ecology, and Management of the Invasive Corythucha arcuata in Eurasia: A Review

The oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832) (Hemiptera: Tingidae), has emerged as an ecologically disruptive invasive pest across Eurasian Quercus forests, severely impairing foliar photosynthetic capacity and overall woodland vitality. By systematically reviewing 111 peer-reviewed studies, this comprehensive synthesis examines the biology, geographic invasion dynamics, ecological adaptability, and management of this species. We trace the spatio-temporal expansion of C. arcuata, highlighting how sub-zero thermal tolerance, climate-driven polyvoltinism, and phenological plasticity facilitate its rapid establishment across diverse climatic zones. Furthermore, we analyze monitoring frameworks-including MODIS satellite remote-sensing and citizen science networks-while acknowledging both their broad-scale utility and limitations in early detection. Given the severe ecotoxicological constraints of conventional synthetic insecticides, we critically evaluate sustainable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) paradigms. Specifically, we investigate biorational formulations (such as spinosad) alongside promising biological control agents, notably the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria pseudobassiana and the oophagous micro-hymenopteran parasitoid Erythmelus klopomor. Ultimately, long-term silvicultural biosecurity requires a multifaceted IPM approach underpinned by continuous geospatial monitoring and rigorous ecological risk assessments prior to classical biocontrol deployments.