First report of Aphis illinoisensis in Albania
The presence of the grapevine aphid, Aphis illinoisensis (Homoptera: Aphididae) which is considered as an invasive species, has now been confirmed in Albania by Prof. E. Çota (2011). The samples were collected in vineyards from April to the 1st of June in Laknas (County of Tirana by R. Uka), Rashbull (County of Durrës), Papër (County of Elbasan), Librazhd-Qendër and Mirakë-Librazhd (County of Elbasan). This aphid feeds on young shoots and leaves of grapevine (Vitis vinifera) and sometimes on berries. On the basis of the morphological characteristics of apterous viviparous female and alatae forms, the pest was identified as A. illinoisensis. It is noted that the presence of this species was suspected in 2009, but the identity of the insect could not be ascertained at that time. This is the first report of A. illinoisensis in Albania.
The situation of A. illinoisensis in Albania can be described as follows: Present, first recorded in 2011, found in almost all vineyards from 10 m to 300 m altitude of the country (Counties of Tirana, Durrës, and Elbasan).
Sources
Personal communication with Prof. Asoc. Dr Ejup ÇOTA, Agricultural University of Tirana, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Plant Protection Department, Albania (2011-06)