- 61 views
Lycorma delicatula (White, 1845), known as the spotted lanternfly, is a phytophagous and polyphagous insect species, native to China, Taiwan and Vietnam which later spread to South Korea, Japan and the United States of America. It is considered an invasive pest of major phytosanitary importance. In the Republic of Moldova, the species was reported on spontaneous plants of Ailanthus altissima.
Lycorma delicatula is an insect of the order Hemiptera, suborder Auchenorrhyncha, family Fulgoridae. It develops a single generation per year and overwinters in the egg stage. The female lays between 30-50 eggs on stems and trunks, but also on other surfaces, such as stones, vehicles, etc. The eggs are covered with a waxy, gray-brown secretion, which makes them difficult to observe. Hatching occurs in spring, after which the insect goes through four nymphal stages. The nymphs of the first three stages are black, with white spots, and the last stage has a distinct reddish coloration. Adults begin their activity starting in July. They are weak flyers, but good jumpers. The body length is about 25 mm in adults, with gray forewings with black spots and hindwings with red spots visible in flight, being easily recognized.
Lycorma delicatula is a polyphagous pest, the larvae consuming over 70 plant species. Important hosts include Ailanthus altissima, grapevines (Vitis vinifera), species of Acer, Juglans, Salix, Malus and Prunus, as well as numerous ornamental, forest and herbaceous species. Both nymphs and adults feed by piercing tissues and sucking sap from the phloem. Through polyphagy, dispersal capacity and the damage to important crops, especially grapevines, the species poses a significant phytosanitary risk for the Republic of Moldova. In grapevines, damage can reach up to 90% of production, with significant deterioration of grape quality. The species can affect viticulture, nurseries, the fruit and forestry sectors and the wood industry.
Cristina Țugulea, PhD
1 Academiei str.
+(373 22) 73-98-09