Potential leafhopper and planthopper vectors of phytoplasmas in wine vineyards of the Marche region (Central Italy).

A survey was carried out to determine the occurrence and distribution of leafhopper and planthopper vectors, or suspected (“potential”) vectors, of phytoplasmas in the most important viticultural areas of the Marche region of Italy. The investigations also determined the herbaceous plant hosts of the planthopper Hyalesthes obsoletus. Many species of Auchenorrhyncha were identified, some of which are known to be vectors, or potential vectors, of phytoplasmas. Scaphoideus titanus was not detected in this region. H. obsoletus larval instars were detected only on stinging nettle roots. From June to August, the cixiid adults were found on stinging nettle and field bindweed, rather than on grapevines.