Spread of Metcalfa pruinosa in Ticino (Switzerland)
As previously reported (see EPPO RS 96/040), Metcalfa pruinosa originates from the Americas, and was first introduced into Europe in Italy (in 1979). It then spread in north-east Italy, south-east of France (around 1986), Slovenia (in 1991), and was first found in the south of Ticino (Switzerland) in 1993. Surveys carried out in 1995-1997 have shown that M. pruinosa is spreading in Ticino. However, populations levels are low and no damage is seen. This very polyphagous insect has been observed on many plants (found on 65 plant species, including ornamentals, weeds and the following crops: basil, bean, cherry, cucumber, grapevine, kaki, parsley, pepper, potato, strawberry, tomato, Rubus, etc.). Biological control using the parasidoid Neodryinus typhlocybae (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae) is envisaged against M. pruinosa in Ticino.
Sources
Bonavia, M.; Jermini, M.; Brunetti, R. (1998) La cicadelle Metcalfa pruinosa Say au Tessin. Distribution actuelle, dynamique des populations et perspectives de lutte.
Revue Suisse de Viticulture, Arboriculture, Horticulture, 30(3), 169-172.