RESEARCH OF TROPHIC CONNECTIONS AND PHENOLOGY METCALFA PRUINOSA SAY (HEMIPTERA: FLATIDAE) IN THE GRYSHKO NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF UKRAINE

Abstract

The article presents data on the emergence and spread of the invasive potential of the dangerous pest Metcalfa pruinosa (Say) in the conditions of the Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. The insect was recorded for the first time at the botanical-geographic site "Far East" in the NBG in May 2016. Since then, M. pruinosa the has expanded its range, and new sites of insect infestation have been found in the NBG and on private grounds outside the botanical garden. The host plants were identified and the extent of their damage was assessed. The most populated plant species belonged to the genera Rosaceae, Aceraceae, Oleaceae, Lamiaceae, Fabaceae, Amaranthaceae, Apiaceae, Araliaceae, Balsaminaceaee. The phenology of citrus flatid planthopper was investigated. It has been established that the insect has one generation per year. The development of the M. pruinosa is limited to a minimum air temperature of 17–20 °С. In the first decade of May, the appearance of larvae citrus flatid planthopper is observed. The first imagos are recorded in early or mid-July, depending on the meteorological conditions of the year. The complete disappearance of adults occurs at the end of August. In order to prevent the further introduction, spread and harmfulness of M. pruinosa in Ukraine, the following measures should be considered: (1) trade of plants for planting is necessary only from pest-free production sites, (2) periodic inspections of plants for colonization by M. pruinosa larvae should be carried out in June , (3) conduct a special inspection of wax threads, (4) apply insecticides against the young immature stages of M. pruinosa, (5) increase public awareness of this pest.