Spatial and temporal distribution of Empoasca vitis within a vineyard

Abstract

1. The intra-plot spatial distribution of the green leafhopper Empoasca vitis (Goethe) (Cicadellidae, Empoascini) was assessed over three successive growing seasons in a Bordeaux vineyard. Weekly measurements of adult trappings and nymphal counts were performed in a 1.7-ha plot on 130 sampling points. 2. Statistical and geostatistical analyses revealed inconsistent spatial distributions of adults and nymphs in spring, but consistent spatial distributions in summer, which were identical every year. 3. Similarities between spatial distributions of the mobile adults and the sedentary and aggregated nymphs strongly suggest that adults disperse inside the plot to areas preferred for egg deposition. 4. The similarity of summer populations among years suggests that this insects distribution is based on (perennial) differences in plot characteristics. © 2008 The Authors.