Potential vectors of Xylella fastidiosa and their host plants found in Germany

Xylem feeding Auchenorrhyncha insert their stylets deep into plant tissues to feed on xylem-sap which may be colonized by the bacterium X. fastidiosa. The pathogen can lead in susceptible plants to symptoms like yellowing, leaf scorch, withering of branches and finally dieback. The Meadow Spittlebug (Philaenus spumarius) is the only vector of the pathogen identified in Europe so far, but the potential role of other xylem feeders needs to be investigated. In the course of the European XFACTORS project, surveys are carried out to identify the prevalent xylem-feeding species (Hemiptera: Cicadidae, Cercopidae, Aphrophoridae and Cicadellinae) in susceptible crops and their natural host plants in Germany. A preliminary list of xylem feeding Auchenorrhyncha and their principal host plants identified so far is presented based on the results of the first season of the project activities.