Morphological, genetic and symptomatic identification of an invasive jujube pest in Korea, Dasineura jujubifolia Jiao & Bu (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae)

Abstract

• We recognized Dasineura jujubifolia for the first time in Korea. • Taxonomic status, geographical distribution, morphological characteristics of all stages and infestation symptoms are provided. • Mitochondrial COI barcode sequences of this species were provided. • Detailed biology and research data of this species were reviewed. Correct identification of invasive species is an important step for further management of this species. New type of leafcurling gall midge feeding on jujube, Ziziphus jujube Miller (Rhamnaceae), was discovered in Korea in 2011. At that time, this species was not identified as specific level, so it was recorded as Dasineura sp. Since then, the jujube gall midge has become a serious alien insect pest in Korea. In this study, this jujube gall midge was surveyed by collecting damaged leaf samples from different major jujube-producing regions in Korea. Morphological, genetic and symptomatic identification of this invasive jujube pest identified as Dasineura jujubifolia Jiao & Bu. Here we provided its taxonomic status, geographical distribution, morphological characteristics of all stages and infestation symptoms. In addition to classical morphological characters, mitochondrial COI barcoding sequences were generated for several specimens. The possible pathway of invasion and subsequent socioeconomic consequences were discussed.