March 23, 2016: first seasonal observation of adults of Philaenus spumarius in Salento

Among the activities of POnTE aimed to study the biology of the vector Philaenus spumarius, periodical samplings and field observations have to be done in the area of the province of Lecce (southern Italy) affected by Xylella fastidiosa. In the framework of these activities on March 23, Philaenus spumarius adults were observed for the first time in the season.

Insects were caught in the countryside of Gallipoli and they have been identified through the microscopic examination of key morphological characters.

A formal communication of the finding was given today, March 25, to the Regional Plant Protection Service.

Credits to Vincenzo Cavalieri (CNR-IPSP)