Degree-day-based model to predict egg hatching ofPhilaenus spumarius(Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae), the main vector ofXylella fastidiosain Europe

Abstract

ABSTRACTPhilaenus spumariusL., the main vector ofXylella fastidiosa(Wells) in Europe, is a univoltine species that overwinters in the egg stage, and its nymphs emerge in late winter or spring. Predicting the time of egg hatching is essential for determining the precise times for deploying control strategies against insect pests. Here, we monitoredP. spumariuseggs from oviposition to egg hatching together with the daily temperatures and relative humidities at four field locations that were located at different altitudes in central Spain. The collected data were used to build a growing degree day (GDD) model to forecast egg hatching in the Iberian Peninsula. Furthermore, the model was validated with field observations that were conducted in Spain. The model was then used as a decision-support tool to calculate the optimum timing for applying control actions againstP. spumarius. Our results suggest that controlling nymphs at two different dates would target the highest percentages of nymphal populations present in the field. Our model represents a first step for predicting the emergence of nymphs and adopting timely control actions againstP. spumarius. These actions could limit disease spread in areas whereX. fastidiosais present.