Severe infestations of the jumping plant-louse Macrohomotoma gladiata, a new species for Italy in urban Ficus plantations.

Abstract

Macrohomotoma gladiata Kuwayama, a tropical Asian psyllid, has been found for the first time in Italy on ornamental Ficus planted in several avenues of Naples (Campania). The species is diagnosed, illustrated and nomenclature is briefly discussed. Preliminary observations carried out during the period July-November 2011indicated that this species has overlapping generations. Generalist predators, such as Anthocoridae and Chrysopidae, have been found associated with several colonies. M. gladiata, already present in both insular and mainland Spain, appears to be easily overlooked during phytosanitary inspections and has the potential to establish in the countries of the Mediterranean Basin.