Contract Research

Psyllidkey

Identification key for psyllids on rosaceae in Central Europe

Important phytoplasmoses in pome and stone fruit in Europe are transmitted by psyllids. Cacopsylla picta and Cacopsylla melanoneura have been identified as vectors of apple proliferation, while Cacopsylla pyri, Cacopsylla pyricola and Cacopsylla pyrisuga are possible vectors of pear decline. European stone fruit yellowing is transmitted by Cacopsylla pruni. Precise identification of these species is a prerequisite for risk assessment of the spread of the diseases and for the introduction of targeted control measures. However, the identification of important species - such as Cacopsylla picta - has so far only been possible using specialised identification literature in English. The new electronic identification key for psyllids on rosaceae in Central Europe aims to solve this problem. It is aimed at plant protection advisors and interested laypersons.

The electronic identification key was developed in collaboration with the Swiss psyllid specialist Dr Daniel Burckhardt. Using a novel concept based on detailed photos and specific characteristics, it enables the reliable identification of psyllid species that transmit phytoplasmosis using the exclusion method. Other psyllids found in pome and stone fruit plants can be excluded at the level of families and genera. Other species of the genus Cacopsylla, which are also found in orchards, can be identified to species. Fact sheets provide further information on all important Cacopsylla species. In addition, the website provides general information on the morphology of psyllids and contains a list of further reading. Mit freundlichen Grüßen