A new method for short-term rearing of citrus psyllids (Hemiptera: Pysllidae) and for collecting their honeydew excretions

Abstract

We developed a new simple method for shortterm rearing of the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) using detached citrus leaves in 50-mL conical polypropylene tubes. Survival of young adults was 89, 80, and 75% after 2, 3, and 4 weeks, respectively, on detached mature leaves that were changed weekly. Survival and adult emergence of 2nd to 3rd-instar nymphs were significantly higher when reared on younger leaves compared to those reared on mature leaves. Honeydew excretion droplets of ACP accumulated and may be easily collected from the conical bottom of the rearing tubes. This new method allows closer observation and photography of psyllid nymphs and adults with minimal disturbance, and it can save time, space and other resources in various studies on the biology, behavior, management and pathogen- vector interactions of ACP and probably other citrus psyllids.