Macropsis mendax as a vector of elm yellows phytoplasma of Ulmus species

Abstract

A 3-year study was carried out in north-east Italy, the site of recent elm yellows epidemics, to identify vectors for the elm yellows phytoplasma. Using PCR analysis, Ulmus minor and Ulmus pumila, each with and without symptoms, were positive for the elm yellows phytoplasma. Macropsis mendax, a univoltine and monophagous leafhopper, was shown to be the vector of the elm yellows-associated disease agent. PCR analyses demonstrated that the insect was infected both in natural conditions and in the screenhouse after acquisition-feeding on infected elm plants. Groups of M. mendax, collected from naturally infected elm trees, transmitted elm yellows phytoplasma to elm test plants. In nature, Alnus glutinosa trees affected by alder yellows were found in the surroundings of yellows-affected elm trees; the associated disease agent of alder yellows was transmitted under controlled conditions from alder to elm test plants by grafting.