Preference of Twolined Spittlebug for Ilex Species, Hybrids and Cultivars

Abstract

Abstract Preference of twolined spittlebug, Prosapia bicincta (Say), for holly species and cultivars was evaluated in the laboratory using detached leaf assays. Field evaluations of spittlebug preference confirmed the high level of susceptibility of holly taxa with Ilex cassine L. or I. opaca Ait. parentage. Taxa observed in the field were rated as highly preferred (10 taxa), moderately (15 taxa), slightly (49), or not preferred (63) based on number of spittlebugs found infesting plants and degree of damage apparent during the two-year study. Increased production and use of pest-resistant plant material reduces the need for pesticide use and provides a good foundation for integrated pest management efforts.