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A Nearctic Pest of Pinaceae Accidentally Introduced into Europe: Leptoglossus Occidentalis (Heteroptera : Coreidae) in Northern Italy
Abstract
English article. ; Publisher Name: American Entomological Society, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103-1195 USA
... In Europe, the species was first reported in 1999, in northern Italy, in Vicenza area (Tescari, 2001). This first observation was followed by many records in Italy Olivieri, 2004;Taylor et al., 2001;Villa et al., 2001) until Sicily, ...
... In Europe, the species was first reported in 1999, in northern Italy, in Vicenza area (Tescari, 2001). This first observation was followed by many records in Italy Olivieri, 2004;Taylor et al., 2001;Villa et al., 2001) until Sicily, ...
... Furthermore, these insects may have a direct economic impact on seed orchards by reducing the quality and quantity of seeds for reforestation or afforestation purposes and for the production of edible seeds or fruits (Roques, 1983;Auger-Rozenberg & Roques, 2012). An exotic seed feeder bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (Hemiptera: Coreidae), native from Western North America, was first introduced in Europe through Italy in 1999 (Taylor et al., 2001). However, the European introductions appeared to originate from a primary invasion in Eastern North America (Lesieur, 2014). ...
... Etter andre verdenskrig spredte arten seg østover i USA og nådde østkysten på 1990-tallet (McPherson et al. 1990, Gill 1992. Arten ble sannsynligvis tilfeldig introdusert til Italia, der den først ble dokumentert i 1999 (Tescari 2001, Taylor et al. 2001. Den er trolig innført til Europa fra USA ved flere tilfeller (Dusoulier et al. 2007, Gallego et al. 2013. ...
... De første individene som ble påvist i Europa, i Italia i 1999 og 2000, var også ubevisst innført fra USA (Taylor et al. 2001). Senere har den sannsynligvis også blitt introdusert minst fem ganger til Europa fra USA med importerte varer, kanskje spesielt trematerialer (Lis et al. 2008, Meurant 2011, Cheron et al. 2013 Neste dag ble to eksemplarer til av denne tegen funnet, begge døde. ...
A summary of the biology, the rapid expansion in Europe and the possible effects on ecology and humans by
Leptoglossus occidentalis are given. The species is reported for the first time from a offshore petroleum installation in the North Sea, more than 300k from any surrounding mainland. An additional French record is also given. The 2016 influx to the Scandinavian countries is discussed.
... Damage to the ovary due to feeding, which results in cone shedding, occurs at the end of summer when nymphs feed. This phenomenon is observed in the nymphs' feeding period at the end of summer (DeBarr and Kormanik, 1975;Jucker, 2008 The insect L. occidentalis causes damage to various coniferous species in Turkiye, including Pinus sylvestris, Pinus nigra, Pinus halepensis, Pinus pinea, Picea orientalis, Larix decidua, Abies spp., Juniperus spp., Cedrus spp., and Pseudotsuga menziesii (Taylor et al. 2001;Fent and Kment 2011;Tamburini et al. 2012). However, there have been no studies conducted on the sensitivity of these species (Lesieur et al., 2014). ...
In recent years, low germination rates have been a problem in the seeds of various coniferous species in Turkiye, particularly Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia) and black pine (Pinus nigra), which are commonly used species for afforestation activities. The increase in low germination rates corresponds to the spread of Leptoglossus occidentalis in coniferous forests, suggesting an investigation of potential correlation between the spread of this insect and the empty seed formation and germination rates. This study aimed to investigate the main causes of empty seeds and low germination rates induced by Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann) in coniferous species in Turkiye. In the study, sample cones from various coniferous species including Fir (Abies spp.), Stone pine (Pinus pinea), Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia), Spruce (Picea orientalis), Cedar (Cedrus libani), Maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), Black pine (Pinus nigra) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) were collected based on their geographical distribution, and then their seeds were extracted. The 1000-seed weights were determined for each species, followed by germination tests conducted under controlled conditions. Statistical analysis revealed significant variations in germination rates among species. Among the eight species examined, Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) had the highest germination rate at 37.9%, while fir (Abies spp) had the lowest rate at 0.4%. Further statistical analysis revealed variations in germination rates based on aspects, with generally higher rates observed in sunny aspects. The results indicated that Leptoglossus occidentalis caused a significant decrease in seed germination ranging from 60–99% in coniferous species. Additionally, reductions in 1000-seed weights ranging from 19–81% were observed in the species, except Scots pine. The findings highlight widespread germination issues in seeds of majority of the coniferous tree in Turkiye. As a result, it was found that L. occidentalis significantly contributes to empty seed formation and lower germination rates in coniferous forests. Therefore, it is essential to develop strategies to protect and conserve seed resources to mitigate any negative impacts on forest resources.
... The western conifer seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis is an important pest occurring in the conifer species worldwide as it damages the seeds of Pinus and Pseudotsuga trees (Koerber 1963;CABI 2022). L. occidentalis originated in western North America (Heidemann 1910;Koerber 1963); however, it is now distributed in Europe (Taylor et al. 2001), Asia (Ishikawa and Kikuhara 2009), Africa (Jamâa et al. 2013), and South America (Faúndez et al. 2017). In Japan, the insect was first recorded in Tokyo in 2009 (Ishikawa and Kikuhara 2009) and has since spread throughout the country, from the Tohoku region in the northeast of Honshu Island to Kyushu in the southwestern main island of Japan (Tsuru et al. 2020). ...
... Currently, it is considered a global invasive species due to its spread across Europe, Asia, Africa and South America (Brailovsky 2014, Lesieur et al. 2014, Faúndez et al. 2017, Lesieur et al. 2018, van der Heyden 2019b, Carpintero et al. 2019,Carpintero et al. 2019. In Europe, it was first detected in northern Italy in 1999 (Taylor et al. 2001). Three years later, the species was present in the south of the country. ...
The 'western seed bug', known as Leptoglossus occidentalis , is considered a global invasive species that has experienced a recent rapid expansion worldwide, becoming an important pest species for coniferous forests.
With the 'Canary Islands early-warning network for the detection and intervention of invasive exotic species' (RedEXOS), this species was detected for the first time in the Canarian rchipelago in an urban area in the eastern part of the sland of Gran Canaria. This early detection is crucial for understanding the potential damage in one of the islands with the highest surface area of natural endemic pine forest.
... The western conifer seed bug (WCSB) Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann) (Heteroptera: Coreidae) is an insect pest native to North America that causes severe damage to the seeds of coniferous trees (Fent & Kment, 2011;Koerber, 1963;McPherson et al., 1990;Tylor et al., 2001). Since that time, the distribution range of this species has expanded rapidly throughout eastern North America, Europe, and East Asia (Ahn et al., 2013;Lesieur et al., 2019;McPherson et al., 1990;Villa et al., 2001), and in Europe in particular, has been a source of notable losses in the agricultural and forestry sectors. ...
The western conifer seed bug (WCSB) Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann) (Heteroptera: Coreidae) is a pest insect that causes significant losses of coniferous trees worldwide. In this study, we sought to project the potential distribution of the WCSB based on dual CLIMEX modeling and random forest (RF) analysis to obtain basic data for WCSB monitoring strategies. The CLIMEX model, a semimechanistic niche model that responds to climate-based environmental parameters, is a species distribution model that focuses on regional climatic suitability. Given that this model can be used to select areas that are likely to reflect the climatically favorable spread of species, which we initially used CLIMEX to evaluate the potential distribution of the WCSB. The RF algorithm was used to predict the potential occurrence of WCSB and to evaluate the relative importance of environmental variables for WCSB occurrence. Using the RF model, land cover was found to be the most important variable for classifying the presence/pseudo-absence of the WCSB, with an accuracy of 77.1%. Climatic suitability for the WCSB was predicted to be 2.4-fold higher in Southern Europe than in Western Europe, and the WCSB was predicted to occur primarily near coniferous forests. Given that CLIMEX and RF analyses yielded different prediction results, using the findings of both models may compensate for the shortcomings of these models when used independently. Consequently, to ensure greater prediction reliability, we believe that it would be beneficial to base predictions on the combined potential distribution data obtained using both modeling approaches.
... The western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann 1910 (Hemiptera; Coreidae), is an invasive pest causing significant seed damage on almost all coniferous species including economically important stone pine, Pinus pinea L. 1753 (Farinha et al. 2018). Being native to northwestern USA, it was first recorded in 1999 in Europe (Taylor et al. 2001), and in 2009 in Turkey (Arslangündogdu & Hizal 2010, Fent & Kment 2011. Since then, it rapidly expanded its range and invaded the most important pine nut production spot of the country, the Aegean region, which triggered several research and management programs by the OGM and the local municipalities (Ipekdal et al. 2019). ...
Rising temperature can affect forests negatively through its impact on insect pests. The present study focused on two invasive alien insect species (Dryocosmus kuriphilus and Leptoglossus occidentalis) to understand how rising temperature might affect their damage in Turkish forests. For D. kuriphilus, the timing of chestnut budburst, gall induction and emergence of its introduced parasitoid, Torymus sinensis, were monitored between 2015 and 2019, and each phenological event was compared annually with fluctuations in temperature to observe the parasitoid-host synchrony. For L. occidentalis, cumulative degree days (CDD) were calculated, and the possible number of generations produced in 2020 in different regions of Turkey were predicted. The CDD calculations were repeated under increasing temperature and different photoperiod-diapause induction scenarios. Evaluation of the monitoring data on the D. kuriphilus system showed that gall induction occurred at the same time as budburst, whereas T. sinensis emergence was independent from the budburst, and that the parasitoid-host synchrony was disrupted after the abnormally warm winter in 2018. The CDD calculations estimated that L. occidentalis produced one to five generations from north to south in 2020. They also suggested a significant increase in the number of generations in the southern Turkey under temperature increase scenarios. Including photoperiod as a time-limiting factor reduced the highest possible number of generations from five to two. In conclusion, rising temperature has a potential to threaten the biocontrol against D. kuriphilus, and it can increase voltinism in L. occidentalis.
... This stinkbug has become a serious invading pest worldwide. In 1999, L. occidentalis was found in Europe for the first time in Italy (Taylor et al., 2001) and its population has been rapidly expanding in recent years throughout Europe (Dusoulier et al., 2007;Malumphy et al., 2008;Fent and Kment, 2011;Gapon, 2013;Lesieur et al., 2018;van der Heyden, 2019) and other more distant regions, such as North Africa (Ben Jamaa et al., 2013;Gapon, 2015). It has also spread to South America (Faúndez et al., 2017) and Asia (Ishikawa and Kikuhara, 2009;Ahn et al., 2013). ...
Many stinkbugs in the superfamily Coreoidea (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) develop crypts in the posterior midgut, harboring Caballeronia (Burkholderia) symbionts. These symbionts form a monophyletic group in Burkholderia sensu lato, called the "stinkbug-associated beneficial and environmental (SBE)" group, recently reclassified as the new genus Caballeronia. SBE symbionts are separated into the subclades SBE-α and SBE-β. Previous studies suggested a regional effect on the symbiont infection pattern; Japanese and American bug species are more likely to be associated with SBE-α, while European bug species are almost exclusively associated with SBE-β. However, since only a few insect species have been investigated, it remains unclear whether region-specific infection is general. We herein investigated Caballeronia gut symbionts in diverse Japanese, European, and North American populations of a cosmopolitan species, the Western conifer seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis (Coreoidea: Coreidae). A mole-cular phylogenetic ana-lysis of the 16S rRNA gene demonstrated that SBE-β was the most dominant in all populations. Notably, SBE-α was rarely detected in any region, while a third clade, the "Coreoidea clade" occupied one fourth of the tested populations. Although aposymbiotic bugs showed high mortality, SBE-α- and SBE-β-inoculated insects both showed high survival rates; however, a competition assay demonstrated that SBE-β outcompeted SBE-α in the midgut crypts of L. occidentalis. These results strongly suggest that symbiont specificity in the Leptoglossus-Caballeronia symbiotic association is influenced by the host rather than geography, while the geographic distribution of symbionts may be more important in other bugs.
... vincent.lesieur@csiro.au in the late 1990s. The species was first observed in northern Italy (Bernardinelli & Zandigiacomo, 2001;Taylor et al., 2001) and then spread rapidly through the European continent (Dusoulier et al., 2007;Fent & Kment, 2011;Lesieur et al., 2018). Several introductions occurred in Europe and movements of individuals by their own dispersal and/or by anthropogenic activities have enhanced the rapid spread of this invasive pest in this continent (Lesieur et al., 2018;Farinha, 2019). ...
• The Western conifer seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis, a native insect of North America, was accidentally introduced in Europe in the late 1990s. Since then, it has spread rapidly. Biological control could provide an efficient management option but natural enemies of the pest have been poorly examined in Europe.
• In this study, we exposed sentinel egg masses and collected naturally laid egg masses in southern France in 2016 and 2017, to identify the egg parasitoids of L. occidentalis and investigate their potentials.
• Three egg parasitoids were detected: Anastatus bifasciatus, Ooencyrtus pityocampae and Ooencyrtus telenomicida. The overall parasitism was low compared to that observed in the native range with 6.4% of all eggs being parasitized, while 17.1% of egg masses carried at least one parasitized egg. The total number of parasitized egg masses was similar between parasitoid species, but the mean number of parasitized eggs per egg mass was highest for A. bifasciatus (5.57 vs. 1.25 for Ooencyrtus spp.).
• Sentinel egg masses underestimated the parasitism compared to natural egg masses (respectively, 1.42% and 7.71%).
• Our results suggested that the three generalist parasitoids detected can respond in a Leptoglossus egg density‐dependent manner, but this requires further investigations.
... В Европе данный вид впервые был найден в 1999 г. на севере Италии (Taylor et al., 2001) (Putshkov et al., 2012). В Житомирском Полесье вид впервые зафиксован нами в сентябре 2018 г. в окр. ...
... Consequently, the species factsheets for the "100 of the worst" are essentially presenting the economically most important species of invertebrates (aphids, whiteflies, agromyzid leaf miners, chrysomelid beetles, noctuids, slugs damaging crops and fruit flies, thrips, xylophagous beetles, lepidopteran leaf miners, and nematodes damaging trees). Other categories of economically important alien invertebrates not included in the factsheets are beetles feeding on stored products (e.g., a number of Dermestidae, Bruchidae, Nitidulidae, Tenebrionidae), bark beetles damaging trees and logs (e.g., the North American Gnathotrichus materarius, Faccoli 1998), phytophagous scales attacking vegetables, orchard trees and ornamentals (e.g., the San José scale Diaspidiotus perniciosus), leafhoppers transmitting viral diseases to crops (e.g., Scaphoides titanus vector of yellow speckle disease on grapevine; Della Giustina 1989), seed insects (e.g., Megastigmus seed chalcids; Roques and Skrzypczynska 2003), cynipid gall-makers (e.g., the Asian Dryocosmus kuriphilus on chestnut; Brussino et al. 2002), phytophagous true bugs (e.g., the North American conifer seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis; Taylor et al. 2001), and the lace bugs Corythucha ciliata and C. arcuata ;Servadei 1966;Bernardinelli and Zandigiacomo 2000), termites (e.g., the North American Reticulitermes flavipes; Austin et al. 2005), phytophagous mites (e.g., the red spider mite Tetranychus evansi ;Migeon 2005), and nematodes attacking crops (e.g., the potato cyst nematodes Globodera pallida and G. rostochiensis; Grubini et al. 2007). Some species also represent social nuisance due to their presence in human buildings and gardens (e.g., Leptoglossus occidentalis, Harmonia axyridis, several tramp ants and cockroaches). ...
Invading Nature- Springer Series in Invasion Ecology by James A. Drake (Series Editor)
... Since then, it has spread eastward to reach the Atlantic coast in the 1990s (Gall 1992;McPherson et al. 1990;. In Europe, the species was first reported in northern Italy in 1999 Taylor et al. 2001 (Dusoulier et al. 2007). In this line, different interceptions of adults suggest that the introduction pathway could be related to timber shipments (e.g. ...
Les dernières décennies représentent un tournant majeur concernant les invasions biologiques avec une augmentation sans précédent de leur rythme et de leur ampleur, en lien direct avec les activités humaines, en particulier la mondialisation. Certains invasifs se propagent à une vitesse très rapide dans leur nouveau milieu. L’invasion européenne de la punaise Leptoglossus occidentalis, illustre parfaitement ce phénomène et offre un modèle d’étude particulièrement intéressant. Cette thèse a pour but de tester des hypothèses permettant d’expliquer la rapidité de cette invasion. Pour répondre à cet objectif, nous avons choisi d’utiliser une approche pluridisciplinaire combinant des études de génétique des populations (natives et introduites) à des études de biologie et d’écologie des populations invasives. Grâce à l’utilisation de marqueurs moléculaires et de méthodes Bayésiennes (ABC), nous démontrons que l’invasion en Europe suit un scénario " tête de pont ", au sens où la population invasive de l’Est de l’Amérique du Nord a servi de source pour l’invasion européenne. Nos résultats confirment les soupçons d’introductions multiples dans des zones géographiquement déconnectées. En outre, l’étude de génétique des populations, associée aux mesures expérimentales des capacités de vol, indique que les capacités intrinsèques de dispersion de cette espèce sont particulièrement élevées. Les conditions rencontrées en Europe par les populations introduites ne sont pas un frein à l’invasion. L’espèce s’accommode parfaitement des nouvelles essences de conifères rencontrées sur le continent. La polyphagie observée dans la zone native est confirmée dans la zone d’introduction européenne, constituant un atout pour l’établissement des populations. De plus, cette étude révèle les risques écologiques que cette espèce représente pour la flore native européenne. Les dégâts occasionnés semblent s’additionner à ceux des ravageurs natifs, diminuant ainsi le potentiel de régénération naturelle. L’ensemble de ces résultats constitue une contribution à la connaissance des mécanismes sous-tendant les invasions biologiques, notamment sur la rapidité de propagation de certains invasifs, et met l’accent sur des phénomènes sous-estimés il y a encore peu de temps comme le scénario d’invasion " tête de pont ".
... This is a damaging invasive species originally native to western North America which has been spreading to eastern North America and other parts of the world (Kulijer and Ibrahimi, 2017;Lesieur et al., 2019). The first record of this species in Europe was in Italy in 1999 (Taylor et al. 2001) to be soon followed by observations in further parts of Europe and then in Turkey in 2009 (Arslangündoğdu andHizal 2010;Fent and Kment, 2011). From Turkey, the species has started to spread southwards to Lebanon (Nemer 2015) and the nearby Syrian Golan Heights (van der Heyden 2018). ...
This is the first report of the invasive Western conifer seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann, 1910 (Hemiptera, Coreidae) from the Palestine geography representing its southern-most record in Asia. The record is from Wadi Al Makhrour, a valley considered as a key biodiversity area (KBA) and a UNESCO World Heritage site. L. occidentalis is a significant pest of pine trees and an invasive species to the Mediterranean region originally from western North America. More studies are needed on its ecology, status, genetics, distribution, and potential damage in Palestine.
... e .12, località: Torre di Gaffe -Licata (Agrigento), VI.2018, legit: S. Russotto), presente in Europa soltanto in Sicilia centro-meridionale, con un areale costiero molto ridotto (INSACCO et al., 2015 (TAYLOR et al., 2001). ...
Some interesting taxa in the Museo Civico of Niscemi (Natural History Section) (Caltanissetta, Sicily).
... Another cone insect is Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann, 1910) (Hemiptera: Coreidae), native to North America but accidentally introduced into Europe [96]. Adults feed on the young seeds or flowers of over 40 species of conifers, mainly pines, causing infertility or total destruction of the seeds [97][98][99]. ...
The fungal pathogen Fusarium circinatum (Nirenberg and O’ Donnell) is the causal agent of pine pitch canker (PPC) disease, which seriously afects conifer species in forests and nurseries worldwide. In Europe, PPC is only established in the Iberian Peninsula; however, it is presumed that its range could expand through the continent in the near future. Infection caused by this fungus requires open wounds on the tree, including physical damage caused by insects. Therefore, a relationship probably occurs between PPC and a wide variety of insects. The aim of this review is to outline the taxonomic and ecological diversity of insect species with high potential association with F. circinatum in Europe and elsewhere. The insects were classified as vectors, carriers and wounding agents according to the association level with the PPC disease. In addition, we discuss the insect-mediated spreading of PPC disease in relation to the different phases of forest stand development, from seeds and seedlings in nurseries to mature stands. Lastly, to improve our predictive capacities and to design appropriate intervention measures and strategies for controlling disease dissemination by insects, variables such as geographic location, time of the year and host species should be considered. Our review provides a framework of the multiple factors that regulate the insect–host interactions and determine the success of the infection.
... Another cone insect is Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann, 1910) (Hemiptera: Coreidae), native to North America but accidentally introduced into Europe [96]. Adults feed on the young seeds or flowers of over 40 species of conifers, mainly pines, causing infertility or total destruction of the seeds [97][98][99]. ...
The fungal pathogen Fusarium circinatum (Nirenberg and O' Donnell) is the causal agent of pine pitch canker (PPC) disease, which seriously affects conifer species in forests and nurseries worldwide. In Europe, PPC is only established in the Iberian Peninsula; however, it is presumed that its range could expand through the continent in the near future. Infection caused by this fungus requires open wounds on the tree, including physical damage caused by insects. Therefore, a relationship probably occurs between PPC and a wide variety of insects. The aim of this review is to outline the taxonomic and ecological diversity of insect species with high potential association with F. circinatum in Europe and elsewhere. The insects were classified as vectors, carriers and wounding agents according to the association level with the PPC disease. In addition, we discuss the insect-mediated spreading of PPC disease in relation to the different phases of forest stand development, from seeds and seedlings in nurseries to mature stands. Lastly, to improve our predictive capacities and to design appropriate intervention measures and strategies for controlling disease dissemination by insects, variables such as geographic location, time of the year and host species should be considered. Our review provides a framework of the multiple factors that regulate the insect-host interactions and determine the success of the infection.
... Eingeführte herbivore Generalisten wirken sich eher negativ auf heimische Arten aus, weil sie sich auf vielen verschiedenen Pflanzenarten entwickeln und dort überleben können. Die Amerikanische Kiefernwanze, die 1999 erstmals aus Nordamerika nach Italien eingeführt wurde (Taylor et al. 2001) und sich in den letzten Jahren in ganz Europa ausbreitete (Fent und Kment 2011), ist ein anschauliches Beispiel. Sie beschädigt nicht nur die Samen der eingeführten Douglasie, sondern auch die einheimischer Kiefern (Pinus spp.) und kann folglich die Naturverjüngung einheimischer Arten einschränken und deren Fitness durch die Ausbreitung von Erregern verringern (Lesieur et al. 2014, Tamburin et al. 2012. ...
Die Invasivität von Baumarten wird im Naturschutz und in der Forstwirtschaft unterschiedlich bewertet. Anhand zweier konkurrierender Bewertungen (GABLIS, Essl. et al. 2011 sowie Vor et al. 2015) werden die Unterschiede und Gemeinsamkeiten zwischen den Einschätzungen aufgezeigt und anhand des Management der Douglasie ein gemeinsames Managementkonzept dargestellt.
... The Western Conifer Seed Bug Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann, 1910 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Coreidae) is native to western North America. After its first observation in Italy in 1999, L. occidentalis has been reported as an invasive species from most European countries in the last twenty years (Taylor et al., 2001;van der Heyden, 2018avan der Heyden, , 2018bLesieur et al., 2019). ...
Information on the hibernation of Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann, 1910 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Coreidae) is provided. The presence of the species in Morocco is confirmed.
... D. kuriphilus is an invasive insect of Asian origin. Also, a new association was recently reported between D. sapinea and Leptoglossus occidentalis [43], the so-called western conifer seed bug (WCSB), an invasive coreid, accidentally introduced to Italy from the US in 1999 [44], and nowadays present in several parts of Europe [45]. This association might be beneficial for both partners: the insect enables the fungus to reach a higher number and variety of host trees, either pines or other conifers, while the fungus stimulates the tree's production of monoterpenes, signaling the status of weakness of the tree and attracting more insects [43]. ...
... Since then, its eastern invasion has been extensively documented, and the species was reported to reach the Atlantic Coast in the 1990s (Gall 1992;McPherson et al. 1990; Ridge-O'Connor 2001) and spread as far east as Nova Scotia in 2008 (Scudder 2008). In Europe, the species was first reported in northern Italy in 1999 (Taylor et al. 2001). It was then observed to colonize the whole European continent in less than 15 years (Dusoulier et al. 2007;Fent and Kment 2011;Gapon 2012;Malumphy et al. 2008). ...
Retracing the routes of invasions and determining the origins of invading species is often critical in understanding biological invasions. The Western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis, an insect native of western North America, was first accidentally introduced to eastern North America and then to Europe. The colonization of the entire European continent occurred in ca. 10–15 years, probably promoted by independent introductions in different parts of Europe. A multi-marker approach (mtDNA and microsatellites) combined with approximate Bayesian computation analyses was used to track the origin of European populations and to determine whether this rapid invasion was caused by multiple introductions. Our results show that at least two independent introductions of L. occidentalis have occurred in Europe. Moreover, the analyses showed a stronger genetic similarity of European invasive populations with the eastern North American populations than with those of the native range, suggesting that invasive North American population acted as a bridgehead for European invasion. The results also revealed that natural dispersal as well as human-mediated transportations as hitchhikers probably enhanced the rapid spread of this invasive pest across Europe. This study illustrates the complexity of a rapid invasion and confirms that bridgehead and multiple introductions have serious implications for the success of invasion.
... 4,5 Recently, the species Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (Heteroptera: Coreidae) was introduced into Europe, being first observed in northern Italy and rapidly expanding its occurrence to other countries. 6,7 The species Leptoglossus zonatus (Dallas) occurs in the USA, Mexico and Central and South America. 4,5 This species is polyphagous with records of occurrence on many hosts. ...
The cover image, by Josemar Foresti et al., is based on the Research Article Economic injury levels and economic thresholds for Leptoglossus zonatus (Dallas) (Hemiptera: Coreidae) infesting seed maize, DOI: 10.1002/ps.4671. Photo Credit: Josemar Foresti.
... This extremely invasive insect species was introduced to Europe in 1999. After first discovery in northern Italy, near Vicenza (Taylor et al. 2001) the species spread fast throughout the country, and from Italy to neighboring countries: e.g. Switzerland in 2002(Colombi, Brunetti, 2002), Slovenia in 2003(Gogala 2003, Croatia in 2004 (Tescari 2004). ...
Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann, 1910 is an invasive bug species native to the western part of North America
and one of 16 alien Heteroptera species in Europe. After it was first found in Italy in 1999, the species spread fast
across the continent, including the Balkan Peninsula. Our study confirms the species presence in Bosnia and
Herzegovina and gives data on its distribution, including the earliest records for the country. Up untill now the
species is found at nine different locations in the period from 2008 to 2016. The record from early spring 2008
suggests that the species was already present in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2007 or even earlier. Most records pertain
to overwintering adults. For the first time the species is reported from Bosnian pine (Pinus heldreichii H.
Christ). The species is also reported from Klek village in Dubrovnik region, south Croatia.
... L. occidentalis is a plant-feeding bug commonly called "leaf-footed bugs" or "squash bugs". It is a pest from North America, observed for the first time in Europe (Northern Italy) in 1999 (Taylor et al., 2001), from where this rapidly spread across the European continent, reaching up to Sweden and Ireland and even to Ukraine and Russia (Putchkov, 2013). It is a large true bug of approx 20 mm long (adults), easily recognizable by the hind legs strongly developed with a characteristic enlargement zone on the hind tibiae and long femurs serrated on the inside; thin visible white lines in the shape of inverted 'W' in the middle of the wings (Ruicănescu, 2009); the first segment of antennas is thicker, slightly curved, orange-brown with a black longitudinal line inwards. ...
This work presents the results of the field survey in 2016 referring to invasive insect pests newly recorded from the Southern Romania. Five non-European insect species, belonging to Hemiptera and Lepidoptera Orders damaging diverse plants were identified, as follows: three polyphagous species in Auchenorrhyncha group, Orientus ishidae, Phlogotettix cyclops and Acanalonia conica; one true bug species Leptoglossus occidentalis harmful to conifer seeds, and one leaf miner species Phyllocnistis vitegenella pest to grapevine. In this work we included summarized data related to some aspects of species origins, distribution in Europe and Romania and preference to the host plants.
... Recently, this species was also found in Japan, Korea and Tunisia (cf. Taylor et al., 2001;Dusoulier et al., 2007;Rabitsch, 2010;Fent & Kment, 2011;Ahn et al., 2013;Ben Jamâa et al., 2013;Brailovsky, 2014; www.MuseumPest.net). ...
Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann, 1910) (Coreidae) and Halyomorpha halys (Stål,
1855) (Pentatomidae) are recorded for the frst time from the State Nature Reserve “Bosco della
Fontana” (Lombardy region, Mantova province, Marmirolo commune). The presence in the Reserve of these two alien species is briefly discussed; 29 species of alien insects are now recorded from this Reserve.
... 4,5 Recently, the species Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (Heteroptera: Coreidae) was introduced into Europe, being first observed in northern Italy and rapidly expanding its occurrence to other countries. 6,7 The species Leptoglossus zonatus (Dallas) occurs in the USA, Mexico and Central and South America. 4,5 This species is polyphagous with records of occurrence on many hosts. ...
Background:
Although Leptoglossus zonatus is considered a secondary pest of maize grown for grain, when grown for seed, this pest can cause significant economic damage. There are no records of management recommendations for this pest. The objectives of this work were to quantify losses caused by L. zonatus to different genotypes used for seed maize production and to estimate the acute toxicity of select insecticides to L. zonatus using different application technologies. The ultimate goal was to calculate economic injury levels (EILs) and develop economic thresholds (ETs) for L. zonatus infesting seed maize.
Results:
EILs and ETs varied, respectively, from 3-8 and 2-6 adults 1,000 plants(-1) , depending on the genotype insecticide and application technology. Effective control was obtained by using aerial or ground application of λ-cyhalothrin (10.6%) + thiametoxan (14.1%) or permethrin (38.4%) at the rates of 1.48 mL ha(-1) and 27.10 mL ha(-1) , respectively, or ground application of methomyl (21.5%) at the rate of 244.06 mL ha(-1) .
Conclusion:
Maize grown for seed is susceptible to L. zonatus damage during reproductive stages, and the pest densities requiring management vary with genotype, insecticide, and application technology. These results provide significant contributions towards IPM for seed maize.
... Mts., from British Columbia to North Mexico (McPherson et al. 1990;Dusoulier et al. 2007). First introduction to Europe was recorded in Italy, near Vicenza in 1999 (Taylor et al. 2001). L. occidentalis spread fast across the continent and within 15 years it was reported from all parts of Europe, including Portugal, England, Norway, Turkey, Ukraine and Russia (Fent & Kment 2011;Gapon 2013). ...
First records of the invasive western conifer seed bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann, 1910) in Kosovo are presented and discussed. This finding complements the known range of the species in the Balkan Peninsula with Albania now being the only country without confirmation of its presence.
... The Western conifer seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (Heteroptera, Coreidae), which seriously impairs seed production of conifer species in Europe (Roversi et al. 2011;Tamburini et al. 2012;Lesieur et al. 2014), was introduced in the late 1990s and in just a decade invaded large parts of the continent (Taylor et al. 2001;Fent and Kment 2011). In Italy, L. occidentalis is the vector of Diplodia sapinea (Fr.) ...
Abstract Invasive forest pathogens are a major threat to forests worldwide, causing increasing damage. The knowledge of both the specific traits underlying the capacity of a pathogen to become invasive, and the attributes predisposing an environment to invasion are to be thoroughly understood in order to deal with forest invasions. This paper summarizes the historical knowledge on this subject. Many aspects of the ecological processes underlying alien forest pathogens invasions are still unknown, which raises several scientific issues that need further study. The introduction of invasive forest pathogens to areas where naıve hosts are found, is mainly due to global plant trade. Rapid transportation and reduced delivery times increase the chances of survival of pathogen propagules and of their successful establishment in new environments. In forest pathogens, the reproduction mode seems not to be a crucial determinant of invasiveness, as highly destructive pathogens have a variety of reproductive strategies. The most important drivers of forest pathogen invasions appear to be (a) great adaptability to new environmental conditions; (b) efficient dispersal over long and short
distances, possibly assisted by the capacity to form novel associations with endemic and/or alien insect
vectors; (c) the ability to exchange genetic material or hybridize with resident or alien species. Moreover,
these features interact with some key traits of the invaded environment, e.g. environmental variability
and biodiversity richness. Host resistance and natural enemies may occur as a result of rapid selection/
adaptation after the epidemic phase of invasion.
... Furthermore, these insects may have a direct economic impact on seed orchards by reducing the quality and quantity of seeds for reforestation or afforestation purposes, as well as for the production of edible seeds or fruits (Roques, 1983;Auger-Rozenberg & Roques, 2012). An exotic seed feeder bug Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (Hemiptera: Coreidae), native to Western North America, was first introduced in Europe through Italy in 1999 (Taylor et al., 2001). However, Correspondence: Ana O. Farinha. ...
The consumption of edible pine seeds of stone pine by the invasive L eptoglossus occidentalis represents a major concern for producers in M editerranean countries but, to date, little knowledge is available about its feeding process on these seeds.
In the present study, we tested whether L . occidentalis is capable of feeding upon mature pine seeds and also estimated the impact that they may induce.
Sound pine seeds were offered to bugs under laboratory conditions. Seed content was analyzed via a multitechnique approach using a stereomicroscope, X ‐rays and microcomputed tomography, which was expected to better characterize the damage caused by this bug.
Adults of L . occidentalis were capable of feeding on mature seeds by piercing the hard and thick coat. However, the consumption was low and demonstrated a slow start, presumably as a result of the time and effort taken to drill a feeding hole.
A collaborative feeding process was suggested because all bugs in the same box appeared to have fed through the same hole in most cases.
Consumption was estimated to be approximately one‐fifth of a seed kernel per bug per month. Consumed kernels appeared skunked and wrinkled.
... Leptoglossus occidentalis provine din partea de vest a Americii de Nord, dar în anii 1950 ajunsese deja la est de Munții Stâncoși și în anii 1990 în statele de pe coasta estică a SUA și a Canadei (McPherson et al. 1990, Gall 1992, O'Shea et al. 2005. În Europa, specia a fost observată pentru prima dată în toamna anului 1999, în nordul Italiei (Taylor et al. 2001) și în cca. 12 ani s-a răspândit în aproape toată Europa, ajungând și în Rusia (Gapon 2013). ...
New records of ten invasive insect species in Romania are presented. The studied species are: Cameraria ohridella Deschka & Dimic 1986, Parectopa robiniella Clemens 1863, Phyllonorycter robiniella (Clemens 1859),
Phyllonorycter issikii (Kumata 1963), Hyphantria cunea (Drury 1773), Obolodiplosis robiniae (Haldeman 1847), Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann 1910, Eopineus strobus (Hartig 1837), Megastigmus spermotrophus Wachtl 1893 and Harmonia axyridis Pallas 1773. The native range of each species, the first report and the present distribution in Europe and in Romania are discussed.
The new records suggest that all the analysed species have established populations in our country and a more widespread distribution than that previously known. Some of them attain sometimes locally or zonally high population levels and are regarded as important pests. For the most species, new observations are necessary, both concerning their presence in the areas where they were not found so far, but also to assess the impact of insect populations on their hosts and on the recipient biocoenoses. A particular attention should be paid to the species H. axyridis, whose swarms invade the houses of the people during the autumn and could cause annoyance and possibly allergy. Citizen participation in observing and reporting of these new ”guests” is encouraged.
... D. sapinea is mainly dispersed through conidia, which are transported not only by rain and wind but also by insects (Palmer et al., 1988). A new association was recently reported between D. sapinea and Leptoglossus occidentalis (Luchi et al., 2012), the so called western conifer seed bug (WCSB), an invasive coreid accidentally introduced to Italy from the US in 1999 (Bernardinelli and Zandigiacomo, 2001;Taylor et al., 2001), and nowadays present in several parts of Europe (EPPO, 2016b). The association might be beneficial for both partners: the insect enables the fungus to reach a higher number and variety of host trees, either pines or other conifers, while the fungus stimulates the tree's production of monoterpenes, signaling the status of weakness of the tree and attracting more insects (Luchi et al., 2012). ...
... Североамериканский вид, трофически связан с представителями семейств Pinaceae (Pinus, Abies, Picea и др.) и Cupressaceae (Juniperus, Cupressus и др.). В Европе впервые отмечен в 1999 году в Италии [Taylor et al., 2001]. В 2010 году семенной клоп найден на Украине (Запорожская, Днепропетровская и Донецкая области, Крым) [Putshkov et al., 2012], в 2011 в России [Gapon, 2013]. ...
The article presents information about 19 species of invasive phytophagous insects which were registered during the last 20 years on the territory of Donbass. Three species (Trichoferus campestris, Xyleborinus attenuatus and Anisandrus maiche) belong to the group of specialized xylophages, which can damage physiologically weakened trees and be technical pests. Monophagous and oligophagous species represent a larger group of invaders. Four species were associated with Robinia pseudoacacia: Obolodiplosis robiniae,
Phyllonorycter robiniella, Parectopa robiniella and Nematus tibialis; two species with Gleditsia triacanthos:
Dasineura gleditchiae and Megabruchidius dorsalis. Only one invasive species (Phloeosinus aubei) was found on the Cupressaceae plants (Juniperus virginiana, J. sabina, Thuja occidentalis). Pityogenes bistridentatus was associated with Pinus nigra pallasiana, Leptoglossus occidentalis with Pinus sylvestris, Exechesops foliatus with Acer tataricum and A. ginnala, Acanthoscelides pallidipennis with Amorpha sp., Monarthropalpus flavus with Buxus sempervirens, Lignyodes bischoffi with Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Bruchophagus sophorae with Sophora japonica, Cameraria ohridella with Aesculus hippocastanum, Aproceros leucopoda with Ulmus pumila. It was found, that neighboring invaders from European, Caucasian and Mediterranean fauna, which previously were limited by the range of host-plants are the main invasive phytophagous insects in forest plantations of Donbass in the end of the XX century. Distant invaders, which were transferred from North America (8 species), Southeast Asia (3 species) and Far East (3 species) form the faunistic basis of contemporary complex of invaders.
... Students were the major contributors to this survey (about 1/3 of records), followed by citizens (22 %), researchers (20 %), entomologists/naturalists (17 %), personnel of plant protection services (6 %) and museum personnel (2 %). Other phytosanitary relevant IAS similarly detected in Europe were Leptoglossus occidentalis (Hemiptera: Coreidae) (Taylor et al. 2001) and Aromia bungii (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) (Burmeister et al. 2012). Our findings confirm that, when verified by competent taxonomy specialists, insect collection performed for educational purposes and/or by entomology amateurs can be crucial for the detection of allochthonous insects. ...
Early detection of invasive alien species and the ability to track their spread are critical for undertaking appropriate management decisions. Citizen science surveys are potentially valuable tools for quickly obtaining information on biodiversity and species distributions. The Asian brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys, is an invasive pest of agricultural crops and a dwelling nuisance. Halyomorpha halys was first recorded in Italy in 2012 in Emilia Romagna, one of the most important fruit producing regions of Europe. To rapidly obtain data on its distribution in the newly invaded area, a survey that combined citizen science and active search was set up using multimedia channels. Data concerning when, where and how the bugs were spotted were collected, together with photographs and specimens. The survey detected established breeding populations in different areas of Northern Italy and Southern Switzerland, indicating a potentially high risk for crop damage that extends beyond the territories of first detection. Furthermore, new data on H. halys phenology, host plants, voltinism and behaviour were obtained. The importance of citizen science in early detection of introduced pest species is highlighted. This paper also provides a picture-based key to recognize H. halys from similar pentatomids in the world.
... This invasive insect pest, native to North America, was accidentally introduced in Italy in 1999 (Taylor et al. 2001), and spread rapidly to most of western and central Europe (Rabitsch 2008;EPPO 2010). Both adults and nymphs feed on young seeds or flowers, sucking the endosperm and cause abortion of the seeds (Bates and Borden 2005;Mitchell 2000). ...
The forest lands are the most extensive land use in Portugal, providing essential resources and services for the society and the national economy. Formal forest planning has already a long history, namely the action developed by foresters and forest economists since the beginning of the nineteenth century, with the introduction of new forest management concepts, some of them still valid nowadays. This chapter briefly presents: (1) The main biophysical, social and economic features of the Portuguese forest sector, highlighting the strengths and limitations of forest management, both at European and regional context levels (2) The main landmarks of forest planning in Portugal and its contribution to shaping the currently existing forest areas, emphasizing the role of the State and other agents in the design and implementation of plans and other measures of forest policy (3) The current Portuguese forest planning system. The several types of local, municipal, regional and national forest planning are described and the latest developments are highlighted (4) The importance of new models for implementing forest planning, namely the forest intervention areas (ZIF) developed in Portugal since mid-1970s. Are also identified the main challenges the Portuguese forests are now facing and the contribution of forest planning for national objectives, not only in the forest sector, but also for the protection of ecosystems and socio-economic development.
... In Europe, L. occidentalis was discovered for the first time near Vicenza in northern Italy in 1999 (TESCARI, 2001). The first record was followed by a rapid spread in Italy, where it was found at further localities in Lombardy, Veneto, Abruzzo, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Emilia-Romagna, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Sicily (BERNARDINELLI & ZANDIGIACOMO, 2001HILPOLD, 2005;OLIVIERI, 2004;PEZZI, 2003;TAYLOR et al., 2001;TESCARI 2001TESCARI , 2003VANIN et al., 2005;VICIDOMINI & PIGNATORO 2007;VILLA et al., 2001). It was also collected in 2002 in southern Switzerland (canton Tessin) (COLOMBI & BRUNETTI, 2002) Leptoglossus occidentalis is an oligophytophagous species which develops on various conifers. ...
Additional records of the invasive Nearctic true bug Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann, 1910 (Heteroptera: Coreidae: Coreinae: Anisoscelini) from Croatia are given from the islands of Rab, Brač, and Hvar. A new host plant, Pinus halepensis, is reported.
... Its distribution extends through the United States of America, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Ecuador, Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay and Argentina to Africa, Asia, Australia and the Pacific Islands (Maes & Goellner-Scheiding, 1993;Packauskas, 2010;Fent & Kment, 2011;Brailovsky, 2014). It has not been reported from continental Europe (Taylor et al., 2001) yet, but has reached the Canary Islands (Heiss & Báez, 1990;Aukema et al., 2006;Fent & Kment, 2011). Ecology of L. gonagra (Fabricius, 1775) L. gonagra is phytophagous and has been reported to feed on a wide range of plants, belonging to the families Anacardiaceae, Asteraceae, Bixaceae, Capparidaceae, Cucurbitaceae (including Cucurbita sp. and Cucumis sp.), Euphorbiaceae, Malvaceae, Myrtaceae, Passifloraceae (including various species of cultivated Passiflora), Poaceae (including Zea mays), Punicaceae (including Punica sp.), Rutaceae (including Citrus sp.), Solanaceae (including Nicotiana sp. and Solanum sp.), Typhaceae and Vitaceae (including Vitis sp.) (Maes & Goellner-Scheiding, 1993;Boiça Jr. & Caetano, 1999;Joy & Sherin, 2013). ...
In recent years, low germination rates have been a problem in the seeds of various coniferous species in Turkey, particularly Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia) and black pine (Pinus nigra), which are commonly used species for afforestation activities. The increase in low germination rates corresponds to the spread of Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann) in coniferous forests, suggesting an investigation of the potential correlation between the spread of this insect and the empty seed formation and germination rates. This study aimed to investigate the main causes of empty seeds and low germination rates induced by L. occidentalis in coniferous species in Turkey. Sample cones were collected from various coniferous species, including fir (Abies spp.), stone pine (Pinus pinea), Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia), spruce (Picea orientalis), cedar (Cedrus libani), maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), black pine (Pinus nigra), and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), based on their geographical distribution. The seeds were extracted, and the 1000-seed weights were determined for each species, followed by germination tests conducted under controlled conditions. Statistical analysis revealed significant variations in germination rates between species. Among the eight species examined, Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) had the highest germination rate of 37.9%, while fir (Abies spp) had the lowest rate of 0.4%. Further analysis showed variations in germination rates based on aspects, with generally higher rates observed in sunny aspects. The results indicated that L. occidentalis caused a significant decrease in seed germination ranging from 60 to 99% in coniferous species and reductions in 1000-seed weights ranging from 19 to 81% among the species, except for Scots pine. The findings highlight widespread germination issues in the seeds of most coniferous trees in Turkey. It was found that L. occidentalis significantly contributes to the formation of empty seeds and lower germination rates in coniferous forests. Therefore, developing strategies to protect and conserve seed resources is essential to mitigate negative impacts on forest resources.
An updated version of the ‘Checklist of the Italian Fauna’ for the suborder Heteroptera (Insecta: Hemiptera) is presented here. The list reflects the state of art of chorological knowledge of both aquatic and terrestrial Italian Heteroptera in November 2020. The checklist records 1395 species-group taxa belonging to 6 infraorders and 48 families. The total number of species-group taxa includes 44 taxa currently considered endemic to Italy, 12 subendemic, 13 introduced and 10 cryptogenic. The distribution
of Italian Heteroptera in the new checklist is based on the subdivision of Italy in two macro-regions, Continental Italy and Peninsular Italy, and two major islands, Sicily and Sardinia. Compared to the previous Checklist by Faraci & Rizzotti Vlach, published in 1995, the new one contains nomenclatural changes, additions and exclusions of species based on the perusal of 220 literature sources. The main changes concern the families Miridae (21 synonymies, 26 exclusions and 34 additions), Rhyparochromidae (15 exclusions and 14 additions) and Pentatomidae (13 exclusions and 5 additions). Explanatory notes are provided for all the updates of the new checklist. The full data set is attached to this paper as supplementary files, while a simplified version is freely accessible from the LifeWatch Italy
Data Portal (https://dataportal.lifewatchitaly.eu/data) where it is expected to be regularly updated.
The commercialization of pine nuts generates major economic benefits for the Mediterranean basin. This has been reduced due to an increase in cone and seed damage associated with the spread of the western conifer seed bug (WCSB) throughout the Mediterranean region and the Dry Cone Syndrome appearing on pine cones. Studies on several conifer species have associated cone and seed damage with WCSB feeding.
To relate cone and seed damage of stone pine to WCSB feeding, one exposure and exclusion trial of cones to the feeding of the natural WCSB population was carried out. To determine the seasonality of cone and seed damage caused by this pest, another trial consisting of bagging cones with insects was performed with first‐, second‐ and third‐year cones at different stages of cone development.
The natural WCSB population was associated with cone abortion in second‐year cones (unprotected: 43.6% vs. protected: 2.7%), a decreased number of seeds per cone (82.0 vs. 105.3), kernel yield (1.8% vs. 3.8%) and proportion of sound kernels (35.6% vs. 73.6%), and numerous types of kernel damage.
Cone mortality in first‐ and third‐year cones bagged with insects decreased as the bagging date advanced. A temporal sequence of kernel damage in third‐year cones (aborted, dry embryo without endosperm, and totally or partially damaged endosperm) was reported for seed development and the timing of WCSB feeding.
Our findings may be useful in the management of WCSB populations to prevent significant damage to the stone pine nut crop.
The Western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis, is native to North America and has already been considered a significant pest in several European countries since its first observation in Italy in 1999. In Spain and Portugal, it was recorded for the first time in 2003 and 2010, respectively, and its impact on Stone Pine (Pinus pinea) is of major concern. Before developing control measures for this insect pest, it is paramount to clarify its spatiotemporal dynamics of invasion. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to (a) characterise the genetic structure and diversity and (b) invasion pathways of L. occidentalis populations in the Iberian Peninsula. To do so, specimens of L. occidentalis were collected at fourteen sites widely distributed within the Iberian Peninsula. We used mtDNA sequences of Cytochrome b and eleven microsatellite markers to characterise the genetic diversity
and the population structure in the Iberian Peninsula. Our genetic results combined with the observational dates strongly support a stratified expansion of L. occidentalis invasion in the Iberian
Peninsula proceeding from multiple introductions, including at least one in Barcelona, one in Valencia, and one in the west coast or in the Southeastern region.
Bu çalışmada; iğne yapraklı orman ağaçları tohum ve kozalaklarında zarara yol açan böceklerin listesinin oluşturulması amaçlanmıştır. Gerek tohum ticareti gerekse orman ürünlerinde ülkeler arası ticaretin ivme kazanması birçok zararlının dünya genelinde daha da yayılmasına yol açmaktadır. Ayrıca, iklim değişikliğinin etkisi ile birçok tür yeni yayılış alanları bularak, istila alanlarını ve zarar boyutunu artırabilecektir. Bu nedenle, ağaçların kozalak gibi generatif organlarında olumsuz etki gösteren türlerin bilinmesi kaliteli tohum elde edilebilmesi açısından ayrı bir önem arz etmektedir. Yerli ve yabancı alanyazın çalışmalarından elde edilen sonuçlara göre birçok ağaç türünde tohum ve kozalaklarda zarar yapan türler listelenmiştir. Buna göre; 12’si Türkiye odunsu florasındaki doğal iğne yapraklı orman ağacı türü olmak üzere toplam 82 odunsu taksonda 71 tohum ve kozalak zararlısı listelenmiştir. Bu zararlıların 57’si konofag, 14’ü ise seminifag böcek türü olarak tespit edilmiştir. Bazı zararlı türlerinin birden çok ağaç türünde zarara yol açtığı belirlenmiştir. Ağaç türü çeşitliliği açısından zarar spektrumu en geniş türler sırasıyla; Hemiptera takımından Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (1910) (38 ağaç türü), Lepidoptera takımından Dioryctria abietella’yı (16 ağaç türü), 6’şar tür ile Dioryctria abietivorella, D. mendacella ve D. rubella takip etmektedir. En fazla tohum ve kozalak zararlısı 18 farklı herbivor türü ile Picea abies (L.) Karst. türünde tespit edilmiştir. Bu türü 9 zararlı ile Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco, 7 türle Picea glauca (Moench) Voss ve Pinus sylvestris L. subsp. hamata (Steven), 6 türle Picea mariana [Mill] B.S.P. ve Pinus strobus L., 5 tür ile Abies alba Mill, Cedrus libani A. Rich ve Pinus pinaster Aiton, 4’er türle Larix laricina (Du Roi) K. Koch, Pinus brutia Ten., Pinus pinea L., Abies lasiocarpa (Hooker) Nuttall, Pinus nigra Arnold ve Cupresus sempervirens L. takip etmiştir. Bu araştırmada ayrıca, ağaç türlerine en fazla zarar yapan türlerin mücadelesi üzerinde de durulmuştur. İklim değişim etkilerinin her geçen gün etkisinin daha şiddetli hissedildiği günümüz koşullarında plantasyon ve gençleştirme başarısı üzerinde dayanıklı klon, genotip ve popülasyonlarının seçim ve kullanımı daha önemli hale gelmiştir. Bu da geleceğin ıslah çalışmalarında resistant ıslahının daha yoğun ve etkin bir araç olarak kullanımını gündeme getirebilecektir.
Heidemann tarafından 1910 yılında tanımlanan Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann, 1910) İkinci Dünya Savaşından sonra hızlı bir şekilde yayılmaya başlamış, Avrupa’da ilk kez 1999 yılında görülmesine rağmen on yıl içerisinde tüm kıtayı sarmıştır. Ekolojik şartlara hızlı adapte olması ve beslendiği türlerin fazlalığı yayılışında etkili olmuştur. Ülkemizde ilk kez 2009 yılında görülmüş, geçen süre içerisinde tüm ülkede yayılmayı başarmış ve ibreli tür tohumlarında zararları ortaya çıkmıştır. Erken dönem kozalak dökümüne neden olması, olgunlaşan kozalakların embriyo ve endosperm kısımlarına zarar vermesi nedeniyle tohum oluşumu ve çimlenmesini önemli ölçüde azaltmaktadır. Ormancılık çalışmaları açısından irdelendiğinde; böcek zararı nedeniyle tohum kaynağındaki azalmaların ormanlarımızdaki doğal gençleştirme ve fidanlık çalışmalarını olumsuz etkileyeceği aşikârdır. Böceğin doğal düşmanları henüz oluşmadığından popülasyon dengelenememekte ve her yıl zarar yapmaktadır. Ülkemizde olduğu gibi dünyada da henüz etkili bir mücadele yöntemi ortaya konulmuş değildir. Kimyasal mücadeleden ekolojik dengeyi bozacağı endişesi ile kaçınılmaktadır. Bu nedenle biyolojik ve biyoteknik mücadele yöntemleri üzerinde durulmaktadır. Bu mücadele yöntemlerinin biri de L. occidentalis’in doğal düşmanlarının predatör olarak kullanılmasıdır. Bu doğal predatörlerden biri ülkemizde yayılmaya başlayan Zelus renardii (Kolenati, 1857)’dir. Genel bir predatör olması ve L. occidentalis ile nimf dönemlerinin çakışması bu türün L. occidentalis’e karşı predatör olarak kullanılabilirliğinin araştırılmasını zorunlu kılmaktadır. Bu amaçla elde edilen Z. renardi nimf ve erginlerinin kendi türüne ve L. occidentalis’e karşı predatör davranışları gözlemlenmiştir.
Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (Heteroptera: Coreidae) is a notorious pest that causes irreversible damage to coniferous forests in South Korea. However, an effective control strategy is still under development. In this study, we used CLIMEX to analyze the potential distribution of L. occidentalis in relation to climate and host plants in South Korea for the identification of effective control spots. The climate needs of L. occidentalis under current and future climate conditions were analyzed and projected on a map along with the distribution of coniferous forests. The CLIMEX model projected that the area of L. occidentalis distribution would decrease slightly in 2060 compared with that at present. However, it was projected that occurrence in mountainous regions would be sustained, suggesting continued damage to coniferous forests in South Korea.
The western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (1910) (Hemiptera: Coreidae), is a pest causing significant seed damage on many coniferous species. Although it is originally from Western North America, it occurs in several countries today due to frequent intercontinental exchange of related plant material. Both nymphs and adults feed on seeds by piercing their stylet into cones and thus cause conelet abortion and seed loss. Therefore, the western conifer seed bug is expected to have consequences on natural forest regeneration. But its main damage occurs on pine nut production which is one of the most profitable non-wood forest industry in several Mediterranean countries, including Turkey. The western conifer seed bug was first recorded in Turkey in 2009 and it expanded its range rapidly since then. It occurs in all regions of the country today. We named it as “çam kozalak emici böceği” (pine cone sucker bug). We aimed in this booklet to compile a Turkish review of the international knowledge on L. occidentalis produced so
far. We also aimed to produce a summary in English which reviews upto date contribution of the Turkish researchers on the pest. Therefore this summary covers only the parts of the booklet related to Turkey. We also provided English versions of the table and figure egends.
Information on the distribution of Leptoglossus occidentalis in Europe is summarized. The presence of the species in Ireland is confirmed. Records of L. occidentalis on the Isle of Man are reported.
The invasive seed bug Leptoglossusoccidentalis , a species native to Western North America, is of major concern for the producers of stone pine seeds in the Mediterranean countries. The large size of these edible seeds and their nutritive content may represent a pull factor for the seed bug. Cone and seed traits of three main Mediterranean pine species: P.pinea , P.pinaster , and P.halepensis , were evaluated. Preference trials with cone-bearing branches, individual cones and seeds were conducted to test host preference among the three host species.
Considering the kernel size, stone pine seeds provide 4 to 13 times more reward than P.pinaster and P.halepensis seeds, respectively, but also needed a greater effort to be reached as measured by coat thickness. Still, the benefit/cost ratio was higher on P.pinea . Individual seeds and cones of P.pinea were 2 to 3 times more consumed than those of the two other pine species. However, branch preference trials did not reveal any difference in bug visits. Moreover, adults manifested strong group behaviour on branches, frequently dissociating into two persisting groups. The implications of these results for P.pinea producing areas are discussed.
The Nearctic coreid Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann 1910 (Hemiptera: Coreidae) known as the Western Conifer Seed Bug, is recorded for the first time in Greece. This highly dispersible species is well established in Europe and was collected by the authors in various areas of continental Greece (Central Evia, Attica and North Peloponnisos), suggesting a wide distribution in this country.
Abstract: The polyphagous species Leptoglossus phyllopus (L.) was examined with respect to host plant preference, tissue feeding specificity, seasonal dispersal among host plants, and life history. Mark-recapture, census, and rearing experiments demonstrated that this species exhibits true polyphagy, in that individual bugs feed on plants from more than one family. Developmental parameters such as growth and survivorship did not differ among plants from several families, but did vary significantly with quality of host (e.g., wild vs. cultivated). Stadium duration, however, varied among wild host plant species in laboratory experiments. Specialization on reproductive plant parts, coupled with sequential polyphagy and dispersal among a variety of seasonal host plants, allows multiple generations per year. Modes of feeding and preferred target tissues among coreids are discussed.
In this paper Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heteroptera: Coreidae) and Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), two new invasive alien species are reported for insect fauna of Macedonia.
Genera previously created for species of the genera Leptoglossus GuérinMénéville and Anisoscelis Latreille (Anisoscelini) are given species-group status. These species groups are keyed, their included species listed with synonymies, and their distributions given. Dallacoris Osuna (Leptoscelini) is a name never published and therefore invalid; its single species is restored to the genus Phthia Stål as Phthia picta (Drury). The species groups in Leptoglosus (and the number of included species) are the dilaticollis species group (3 species), gonagra species group (1), harpagon species group (3), cinctipes species group (3), lineosus species group (3), and zonatus species group (24).
Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (Hemiptera: Coreidae) is considered to be an important cone and seed pest in seed orchards in British Columbia; however, no impact studies have been done in Canada. Surveys to determine the distribution of L. occidentalis were conducted over a 3-year period in three coastal seed orchards of Douglas-fir, Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco, and over a 2-year period in two seed orchards of lodgepole pine, Pinus contorta var. latifolia Engelmann. Leptoglossus occidentalis was found to distribute itself in patches, coinciding with a clonal preference. Seed losses were assessed for 2 years in the coastal Douglas-fir orchards and for 1 year in one lodgepole pine orchard. The percentages of partially filled seed that could have been caused by feeding of L. occidentalis or by a number of other factors were < 5% in coastal Douglas-fir for both 1992 and 1993 and ~14% in lodgepole pine in 1993. Apparently because populations of L. occidentalis were low, there was no correlation between the percentage of partially filled seed and number of insects per tree. Except in unusual circumstances, management measures in Canada are judged not to be necessary as populations of L. occidentalis are consistently below the calculated threshold levels required to cause ≥5% loss in seed production.
In laboratory experiments adults and nymphs of the western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann, were allowed to feed on mature seeds of Douglas-fir, Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirbel) Franco. Weight-loss measurements and scanning electron microscopy provided strong supporting evidence for the use of simple radiographic diagnosis as a method of classifying feeding damage to seeds into four categories: light (greater than two thirds of seed contents remaining), moderate (one third to two thirds of seed contents remaining), severe (less than one third of seed contents remaining), and extreme (seed empty). Scanning electron micrographs showed the apparent depletion of lipid and protein storage reserves which was verified by quantitative analyses that showed significant loss of lipid and buffer-insoluble (crystalloid) storage protein from seeds in all damage categories. The amount of buffer-soluble (matrix) protein was reduced in seeds from the severe and extreme damage categories. The increase in buffer-soluble protein observed in lightly damaged seeds was likely due to the solubilization of crystalloid storage protein, as a result of its breakdown into smaller peptides. Our results suggest that through the action of both lipases and proteases, L. occidentalis can have a serious impact on the major storage reserves of conifer seeds. Moreover, our data suggest that L. occidentalis feeds in a different manner than the laceration and flushing method found in other seed-feeding Hemiptera.
We investigated the effect of feeding by the western conifer-seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann, on seed production in developing cones of coastal Douglas-fir, Pseudostuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco, with respect to seed bug life stage and sex (nymphs, adult females, and adult males) and timing of feeding (early, mid-, and late season cone development). Feeding by females on caged cones for a 2-wk period during late season cone development reduced the proportion of full seeds in cones by approximately 70% compared with caged control cones. There was no significant difference among nymphs, adult females, and adult males with respect to the proportion of empty or partially fed-upon seeds produced during the same feeding period. Feeding by nymphs for 2 wk early in the season resulted in a threefold increase in the number of unextractable seeds fused to cones compared with the control. Weight measurements of harvested seeds indicated that radiography is an accurate tool to distinguish among Douglas-fir seeds that have sustained light, moderate, or severe damage. Determining the full impact of L. occidentalis on conifer seed production will require the development of a reliable method to distinguish between naturally aborted seeds and seeds emptied through feeding by seed bugs.