Pest Management Science (2023) 79, 719-728

Sonia Ganassi, Carmela Di Domenico, Claudio Altomare, Gary J. Samuels, Pasqualina Grazioso, Pardo Di Cillo, Laura Pietrantonio and Antonio De Cristofaro (2023)
Potential of fungi of the genus Trichoderma for biocontrol of Philaenus spumarius, the insect vector for the quarantine bacterium Xylella fastidosa
Pest Management Science 79 (2), 719-728
Abstract:
Background
The meadow spittlebug Philaenus spumarius L. is the vector for the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa subspecies pauca, involved in olive quick decline syndrome (OQDS) in Salento (Italy). Control of P. spumarius is key to limiting transmission of the bacterium, and an innovative approach can be based on effective natural compounds and biocontrol agents. Entomopathogenic fungi are an important source of bioactive natural molecules that play a role in the relationship between microorganisms and insects.
Results
Pathogenicity bioassays, performed by dipping adults of P. spumarius in either fungal culture suspension (120 mg mL^-1) or cell-free culture supernatant of Trichoderma chlorosporum GJS 91-150, showed, respectively, 97% and 87% death within 24 h. The effect was dose-dependent. In laboratory bioassays, the powdered fungal culture of T. chlorosporum GJS 91-150 did not exhibit pathogenic activity when injected into nymph spittle.
Conclusions
T. chlorosporum GJS 91-150 affected the survival of P. spumarius adults. The lethal effect was not associated with the development of mycelium on the cuticle, but seems due, at least partly, to fungal metabolites released in the culture medium. The fungus tested here has good potential for the development of effective low-environmental impact control strategies for P. spumarius and suppression of X. fastidiosa.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Claudio Altomare, Antonio De Cristofaro

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
control - general
biocontrol - natural enemies

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Philaenus spumarius		Italy