Host Suitability of Three Asiatic Elms to the Elm Leaf Beetle (Xanthogaleruca luteola) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

Abstract

Larval and adult elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola (Muller) were fed leaves of Ulmus pumila L., U. parvifolia Jacq. and U. wilsoniana Schneid. to determine host suitability. U. pumila was a suitable host, while U. parvifolia and U. wilsoniana were found to be poor hosts. U. parvifolia and U. wilsoniana should be considered for urban plantings where elm leaf beetle defoliation is severe, and as sources of resistance in elm breeding programs.