UPDATE OF THE ALIEN DISTRIBUTION OF THE JASMINE LACEBUG THROUGH A CITIZEN-SCIENCE APPROACH

Abstract

Alien lacebugs have been recorded in most Mediterranean countries and, in Italy, in several western coastal regions. In this work, we collected new data on the jasmine lacebug Corythauma ayyari through a citizen-science approach. We reported for the first time its presence in three new Italian regions (Lombardy, Piedmont, and Marche), as well as in the hinterland areas of Israel, France, and Spain, up to over 220 km from the nearest coastal area. Through molecular analyses based on the mitochondrial gene of cytochrome oxidase I, we identified three new mitochondrial haplotypes in Italy, suggesting the possibility of recent introductions through plant trading. The increased distribution range towards the European hinterlands by C. ayyari needs to be monitored, as these introduced aliens are responsible for severe impacts on ornamental plants. Furthermore, improved controls in port areas should be recommended to prevent new invasions. We strongly recommend using multi-taxon, pan-continental platforms of citizen-science to collect data and keep the distribution of alien species updated. Key Words: Corythauma ayyari; Mediterranean basin; mitochondrial DNA; online citizen-science platforms; Tingidae.