Penestragania apicalis (Osborn & Ball, 1898) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae, Iassinae) – a new invasive phytophages of honey locust in Eastern Europe

Abstract

In July 2020, in the course of insect collection by light trapping within the city area of Donetsk, the invasive North American leafhopper Penestragania apicalis (Osborn & Ball, 1898) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Iassinae) was first recorded for Eastern Europe. This is the third specialized phytophagous species of honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos L.) introduced to Europe. The distribution of P. apicalis within Europe is still not known, this species is most likely to be widespread throughout the places of honey locust cultivation. The main vector of invasion of P. apicalis is unintended introduction with planting material and by way of self -spread of adults. The penetration of another one specialized phytophage of honey locust into the steppe zone of Eastern Europe requires additional researching of its distribution. Registration of P. apicalis at a considerable distance from the previously known habitat indicates its wide distribution in Europe. Since it is difficult to survey the crowns of tall trees, we recommend using light traps as the simplest and most effective method for leafhoppers detecting. The level of species harmfulness in the territory of its natural range and in Euro pe has not been assessed so far; therefore, the organization of work on a detailed study of its ecological and biological characteristics is required. The formation of a multispecies complex of specialized pests can have a negative impact on the plantings of honey locust in the zone of its introduction. In this regard, the state of the P. apicalis population requires constant monitoring along with other invasive phytophages of Gleditsia – leaf gall midge D. gleditchiae and seed-beetle M. dorsalis.