The psyllid macrohomotoma gladiata kuwayama, 1908 (Hemiptera : Psylloidea : Homotomidae) : a ficus pest recently introduced in the EPPO region

Abstract

The psyllid Macrohomotoma gladiata, is a new insect pest of Ficus originating from Asia which has recently been found in Spain (Alicante) on urban Ficus microcarpa trees. This species may be of phytosanitary concern because of its leaf wrapping habits, wax secretion and honeydew excretion that may lead to direct and secondary twig damage. Although more studies are needed on the biology of M. gladiata, it is suspected that it might behave in the Euro-Mediterranean as an invasive alien species. The predation by Anthocoris sp. (nemoralis?) needs to be investigated in order to assess its effectiveness as a natural biological control agent. This is the first report of M. gladiata from the EPPO region.