Corythucha Arcuata Research Articles

Species diversity of pests of the suborder of shield bugs (Heteroptera) in agrocenoses of the Lazarevsky district of Sochi, Krasnodar Territory, Russia

Aim. The aim of the work was to study the species diversity of pests of the suborder of shield bugs (Heteroptera) in agrocenoses of the Lazarevsky district of Sochi.This paper presents data on the distribution, abundance and density of Heptoptera pest populations in this location. Heteroptera were gathered twice a month during the growing season (April to October) and weekly in the autumn‐winter period (November to March). The choice of registration date during the growing season was determined by the appearance of the first phytophagous individuals after wintering. Identification of the identified phytophages was carried out in the laboratories of the station according to generally accepted methods.The paper presents data on the distribution, abundance and density of pest populations of the suborder of shield bugs (Heteroptera) in the Lazarevsky district of Sochi, Krasnodar Territory. As a result of this research, the species composition of the most common species of bedbugs in this area has been revealed. The most harmful species noted were: berry shield Dolycoris baccarum Linnaeus, 1758; ornate shield Eurydema ornata Linnaeus, 1758; Green shield Nezara viridula Linnaeus, 1758; ruled shield Graphosoma lineatum Linnaeus, 1758; brown‐marbled bug Halyomorpha halys Stål, 1855; oak lace‐maker Corythucha arcuata Say, 1832; sycamore lace‐maker Corythucha ciliata Say; pear lace‐maker Stephanitis pyri Fabricius and linden bug Oxycarenus lavaterae Fabricius, 1787.As a result of the research undertaken, an increase in the total number of bedbug populations, an expansion of trophic connections, an increase in aggressiveness and a change in the status of individual pest species were revealed.

The Effect of Spinosad on the Oak Lace Bug Corythucha arcuata (Hemiptera: Tingidae)-A Preliminary Study Performed Under Laboratory Conditions.

The effect of biopesticide compound spinosad in different concentrations was tested for the first time under laboratory conditions against the rapidly spreading forest pest, oak lace bug (Corythucha arcuata, Say 1832), and its effects were compared with the synthetic pesticide lambda-cyhalothrin. These results revealed a significant effect of spinosad at 2 mL/4 L and 2 mL/2 L water concentrations against C. arcuata nymphs. The mortality rate after 3 days was similar to synthetic insecticide effects and reached 94% and 98%, respectively. Overall, it can be concluded that spinosad is an effective biological method to control oak lace bug; treatments under field conditions should consider the high diversity of other insects in oak forests.

Fast spread of Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832) (Hemiptera: Tingidae) in Slovakia during the period 2020–2022

Abstract This research examines the rapid spread of the oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832), in Slovakia from 2020 to 2022. A native of the Nearctic region, this pest was first detected in Europe back in 2000 and has since extended across considerable part of the continent. Monitoring efforts revealed its presence in Slovakia in 2018, with subsequent surveys showing its distribution through the southern region and a northward expansion. The pest mainly infests oak trees, and in 2022, it was seen there on as many as 87% of the plots. Out of a total of 233 locations visited in the period 2020–2022, the bug was found on 169 sites, which represents 72.5%. The study identified the pedunculate and Turkey oak as primary host-plants. The results provided a clear trend from the bugs moving further north with each passing year, covering an estimated total distance of 84.5 km over the three-year timeframe. Factors influencing its spread included passive transport via vehicles and possible wind-assisted dispersal on a local scale. The study also highlights the need for continuous monitoring and management strategies to mitigate its impact on oak ecosystems.

New parasitoids of Corythucha arcuata (Say) (Hemiptera: Tingidae) in Bulgaria

During the period 2019-2020, parasitoids of invasive oak lace bug (Corythucha arcuata) were studied in Bulgaria. Biological material (larvae of C. arcuata) was collected from European oak (Quercus robur) or Austrian oak (Quercus cerris) in five localities of the country. Five eulophid specimens (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) were reared from the host larvae: Tamarixia pubescens, Elasmus sp., Minotetrastichus sp., Pnigalio sp. and Sympiesis sp. The impact of the parasitoids on the host number was very low (0.1-0.3%). The present records in Bulgaria are the first documented case of adaptation of native parasitoids to the host in the newly occupied areas in Europe and Asia.  

The ongoing range expansion of the invasive oak lace bug across Europe: current occurrence and potential distribution under climate change

In recent years, the oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata, has emerged as a significant threat to European oak forests. This species, native to North America, has in the last two decades rapidly extended its range in Europe, raising concerns about its potential impact on the continent's invaluable oak populations. To address this growing concern, we conducted an extensive study to assess the distribution, colonization patterns, and potential ecological niche of the oak lace bug in Europe.We gathered 1792 unique presence coordinates from 21 Eurasian countries, utilizing diverse sources such as research observations, citizen science initiatives, GBIF database, and social media reports. To delineate the realized niche and future distribution, we employed an ensemble species distribution modelling (SDM) framework. Two future greenhouse gas scenarios (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) were considered across three-time intervals (2021–2040, 2061–2080, and 2081–2100) to project and evaluate the species' potential distribution in the future.Our analysis revealed that significant hotspots rich in host species occurrence for this invasive insect remain uninvaded so far, even within its suitable habitat. Furthermore, the native ranges of Turkey oak (Quercus cerris L.) and Hungarian oak (Quercus frainetto L.) species offer entirely suitable environments for the oak lace bug. In contrast, the pedunculate oak and sessile oak distribution ranges currently show only 40 % and 50 % suitability for colonization, respectively. However, our predictive models indicate a significant transformation in the habitat suitability of the oak lace bug, with suitability for these two oak species increasing by up to 90 %. This shift underlines an evolving landscape where the oak lace bug may exploit more of its available habitats than initially expected. It emphasises the pressing need for proactive measures to manage and stop its expanding presence, which may lead to a harmful impact on the oak population across the European landscape.

Phenology and seasonal dynamics of Corythucha arcuata (Hemiptera: Tingidae) on four autochthonous oak species in Serbia

Summary The oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832), is a widespread invasive species infesting various oaks in Europe and Asia. In this observational study, we explored phenology and investigated seasonal population dynamics of C. arcuata on four oak species native to Europe and widespread in Serbia. It was found that the species has three generations in Serbia. There was a population peak in July and high abundance was maintained in August and September. Leaf damage, the total number of eggs laid and insects collected varied greatly between the different oak species and the feeding preference of C. arcuata for certain oak species we studied was not clear. The sex ratio of the oak lace bug was predominantly female-biased. Five successive phases could be distinguished in the population dynamics of C. arcuata, following the annual sequence of species development. It was suggested that the different exposure of a tree to the sun influences the aggregation patterns of insects in the canopy.

First records of Microstroma album (Desmazières) Saccardo, 1878 (Basidiomycota: Microstromataceae) and Phylloxera glabra (von Heyden, 1837) (Hemiptera: Phylloxeridae) in oak stands in Bulgaria

The current study reports the first records of an aphid-like pest and leaf pathogen on oak species in Bulgaria. In 2020-2023, leaf samples presenting characteristic yellow spots and lesions were collected from mature trees of Quercus petraea, Q. cerris, Q. frainetto and Q. robur in different localities of the country. Damage caused by oak obligate leaf pathogen Microstroma album, the leaf phylloxera, Phylloxera glabra, and the oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata were identified on the lower surface of oak leaves. M. album was identified on all studied Quercus species. Angular white patches, the fruiting stage of the fungus, appeared on the lower surfaces of the leaves. P. glabra caused yellowish mosaic discoloration on the leaf surface of Quercus cerris, Q. frainetto and Q. pertaea. Sucking damage displayed a stippled pattern of yellow, brown, or whitish dots. In places where M. album develops, the invasive oak lace bug was often found as the only sucking species on oak leaves, which is most likely also a vector of the disease. Severe damage caused by established both obligate pathogen (M. album) and sucking insect pests (P. glabra, C. arcuata) could result in a weakening of the oak trees. On sufficiently weakened trees, secondary fungal pathogens or boring insects, commonly infested oak trees, can cause their death.

Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832) (Hemiptera, Tingidae) an invasive pest, with a review of the recent invasion of alien species to Kosovo

Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832) (Hemiptera, Tingidae) an invasive pest, with a review of the recent invasion of alien species to Kosovo

Sperm morphology of Tingidae Laporte, 1833 (Miroidea: Cimicomorpha).

Here, we describe for the first time the sperm morphology of Tingidae (Heteroptera). They are small insects presenting lacy patterns on their pronotum and hemielytra and are exclusively phytophagous, with many economically important species. We studied five species of the tribe Tingini (Tinginae): Teleonemia scrupulosa, Vatiga illudens, Gargaphia lunulata, Leptopharsa sp., and Corythucha arcuata. Their spermiogenesis process is similar to other Heteroptera, with some differences in the formation of the centriole adjunct. This structure extends in the anteroposterior spermatid axis, flanking the nucleus, possibly contributing to nucleus remodeling and sperm elongation. The mature sperm of Tingidae is also similar to that of other Heteroptera, with features that corroborate the group's monophyly. Our data support previous results for their sister family, Miridae, which exhibits some characteristics exclusive to this taxon, not present in Tingidae or other Heteroptera. They also support the sister relationship of the genera Gargaphia and Leptopharsa and suggest closer relationship between Vatiga and Corythucha. Overall, this study sheds light on the sperm ultrastructure of Tingidae and provides information for understanding the evolution and diversity of Heteroptera. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The spermiogenesis process and mature sperm are similar to other Heteroptera The centriole adjunct is derived from a strip of a pericentriolar material extending from the centriole Tingidae and Miridae are distinguishable using sperm morphology.

Invasive behaviour of oak lace bug in forest ecosystems: a comparative analysis between thermophilous and mesophilous oak forests

Forest ecosystems provide invaluable ecological, economic, and social benefits, making them essential for global well-being. However, these ecosystems face various threats, including biological invasions by alien species. Among these, the oak lace bug (OLB), an invasive North American insect, has rapidly spread in Europe, impacting oak forests and raising concerns about its adaptation to new environments. OLB feeds on the undersides of oak leaves, extracting sap and causing chlorotic discoloration. Severe infestations lead to premature defoliation, increased susceptibility to diseases or pests and can also result in a substantial reduction in photosynthesis activity. This study aims to analyse OLB’s invasive behaviour in Romanian forest ecosystems, with a specific focus on the differences between thermophilous and mesophilous oak forests. The analysis covers 6 years of data and reveals critical insights. In the initial 4 years, OLB predominantly inhabited the extracarpathian regions of Romania, with concentrated presence in the southern, western, and northwestern areas. Forest ecosystems mainly affected between 2017 and 2020 were characterized by thermophilous oak forests in southern and western regions. However, in the last 2 years (2021–2022), OLB presence increased, particularly in lowland ecosystems, albeit with reduced damage intensity. The analysis also unveiled an adaptation and expansion of OLB in mesophilous forest ecosystems. Climatic factors, specifically temperature and precipitation, significantly influenced OLB’s behaviour, points with severe attacks exhibiting specific climatic conditions. In summary, this study provides crucial insights into OLB’s behaviour, emphasizing the role of climatic and environmental factors in its invasive tendencies.

The effect of the oak powdery mildew, oak lace bug, and other foliofagous insects on the growth of young pedunculate oak trees

Pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L., 1753) is one of the widely distributed oak species in Europe. A large number of organisms develop on its leaves. To determine the extent to which the oak powdery mildew, oak lace bug, and other foliofagous insects affect the growth of young oak trees, three experimental fields were selected in a 10-year-old pedunculate oak stand. In each of them, 50 trees were randomly selected, and their height was measured at the beginning of the vegetative season. The first experimental field was treated with a systemic insecticide, the second with a systemic fungicide, and the third, a comparison area, with water, during the entire vegetative season. At the end of the vegetative season, 25 plants with one apical branch were selected in each experimental field. Their height was measured, and 20 leaves were taken from each plant to determine the extent of the damage on them at the end of the experiment. After processing the obtained data, it was determined that: 1. Both foliofagous insects and oak leaf inhabiting fungi affect the growth of the oak trees significantly; 2. The oak lace bug did not influence the growth of the young trees significantly, as its abundance was low in all of the experimental areas; 3. The greatest damage on the leaves was caused by defoliator insects, which is why they contributed the most to the decrease in growth caused by insects; 4. The influence of the foliofagous insects on the growth of the trees was not significantly different from the influence of fungi; 5. Suppression of oak powdery mildew and foliofagous insects on young trees is useful as it positively influences the vitality and growth of those trees, and contributes to economic and ecological gain.

Évolution de la colonisation par l’espèce invasive Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832) en France métropolitaine entre 2017 et 2022, en croisant diverses sources de données (Hemiptera, Tingidae)

Evolution of the colonization by the invasive species Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832) in mainland France between 2017 and 2022 by cross-referencing various data sources (Hemiptera, Tingidae). In recent years, studies on Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832), an oak lace bug native to North America, have highlighted this insect’s ability to colonize European oak forests. In France, the oak lace bug was observed for the first time in 2017, in three departments of the south-west. The objective of this study is to inventory the French territories colonized by C. arcuata. A survey was carried out in the region of Occitanie to confirm the absence of the species in Hérault department, and then to assess the front of colonization of the species from west to east. French occurrence data has been collected and grouped together in order to visualize the extent of its area of distribution in 2022. At the end of the surveys, it was revealed that the Oak Lace Bug is progressing towards the east of France, having reached the Tarn at the end of 2021. Finally, C. arcuata has colonized at least 14 departments since its first occurrence in 2017.

Monitoring of the health status of Castanea sativa in the Belasitsa mountain, southwest Bulgaria

In the period 2017-2023, a survey for the assessment of the phytosanitary condition of sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) was conducted in a permanent sample plot (PSP) Belasitsa, which is part of the European large-scale network for monitoring the health status of forest ecosystems under the International Co-operative Program ‘Forests’. The PSP is set in a natural chestnut stand in Belasitsa mountain at an altitude of 643 m. Data collected from the first years of the monitoring determined a slight deterioration in the health status of the chestnut trees caused by an infection with the fungal pathogen Cryphonectria parasitica. An improvement in trees’ vitality and lack of active necrosis were observed in 2022-2023. On the wounds, initiation of callus along the wounded edges was reported. Currently, the introduction of new and dangerous invasive insect pests Dryocosmus kuriphilus, Corythucha arcuata, etc., has not been detected. Attacks of both pests could further deteriorate the health status of the sweet chestnut in Belasitsa.

From Field Data to Practical Knowledge: Investigating the Bioecology of the Oak Lace Bug-An Invasive Insect Species in Europe.

Corythucha arcuata, commonly known as the oak lace bug (OLB), is an insect species originally native to North America that has become an invasive species of significant concern in Europe. This invasive pest has been observed in various European countries, raising concerns about its impact on forest ecosystems. In 2015, it was first documented in Romania, further highlighting the need for research on its bioecology and life cycle. This study investigated the bioecology of the OLB in the southern region of Romania, focusing on its life cycle, development, and population dynamics. The results indicated that the OLB has three generations per year and overwinters in the adult stage in sheltered locations. Temperature significantly influenced the timing of egg hatching, nymph appearance, and adult development, with variation observed between generations. Additionally, a life table analysis provided insights into the population dynamics of the OLB in its natural environment, revealing variation in egg laying trends across generations. This research contributes to a better understanding of the OLB's bioecology and provides essential data for forest managers developing science-based management strategies to mitigate its impact. By elucidating the life cycle and development patterns of the OLB in southern Romania, this study aids in the development of predictive models and life tables tailored to the region. These findings empower forest managers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions for effective OLB management, ultimately preserving the health of forest ecosystems.

Infestation intensity by the invasive oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata (Say) in mixed and pure oak stands

AbstractThere has been accumulating evidence for effects of tree species composition on herbivory with many examples of lower damage by specialist feeders in tree species rich forests. In a joint study in five Central and Southeastern European countries, we studied the effect of tree species richness on infestation intensity of the oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata (Say) (Heteroptera, Tingidae), an invasive pest on oak trees that has spread rapidly across the Balkan Peninsula and Central Europe. Intensity of infestation by C. arcuata on oaks was assessed on three or four study plots with high (pure stands) and three or four plots with low percentage of oak (mixed stands) in each country. Ordinal regression analysis showed that intensity of infestation of trees by C. arcuata differed between countries; no significant effect of stand type (mixed or pure) on infestation levels was detected. When analysing the percentage of trees in the highest infestation class, stand type had a significant effect with more intensive infestation in pure stands. We conclude that mixed stands will not prevent severe infestation but may help mitigating the impact of established C. arcuata populations.

Assessment of the Negative Impact of the Quarantine Pest Oak Lace Bug in the Western Caucasus

In 2015, an invasive oak lace bug (Corythucha arcuata) (Say, 1832), a representative of the North American fauna of lace bugs (Heteroptera: Tingidae), was discovered in the Krasnodar Territory. The main harmfulness of oak lace bug lies in it sucking the cell juices from the leaves, as a result of which their chlorosis develops, which can be especially dangerous and serve as a cause of repression and death of oaks. To assess the foraging impact of oak lace nug, we analysed the pigment composition of English oak (Quercus robur L.) leaves before and after infestation. The optical density of the extracted pigments was measured on a spectrophotometer. The functional state of the photosynthetic apparatus was assessed using a portable chlorophyll fluorometer. As a result, a significant decrease in the content of the main photosynthetic pigment, chlorophyll, as well as carotenoids was found, which indicates the suppression of the plant’s nonspecific protective mechanism. In parallel, there occurs a decrease in the photosynthetic activity coefficient and the vitality level. However, these negative processes are at least partially offset by an increase in chlorophyll b, which prevents the inhibition of CO2 assimilation. Pest damage causes a significant decrease in leaf thickness, mainly due to a decrease in the biometric parameters of spongy and columnar parenchyma.

Utjecaj hrastove mrežaste stjenice Corythucha arcuata na visinu biljaka hrasta lužnjaka ovisno o načinu podmlađivanja

Oak lace bug Corythucha arcuata represents a new pest of oaks in Europe, introduced from North America in year 2000. Damage is caused by adults and larvae that feed on the underside of leaves. The paper presents the results of investigation of impact of Corythucha arcuata on pedunculate oak growth. The two variant experiment was established in 2019 and included the evaluation of the effect of oak lace bug on the height of the seedlings (i) grown under the shade of the adult trees after the intermediate felling and (ii) seedlings grown unshaded after the final felling. Both variants included eight plots of which four were treated with the insecticide thiamethoxam, while other four were untreated. Assessment of the intensity of the attack was performed in June, July and August in 2019, 2020 and 2021, while the height of the plants was measured at the end of the vegetation period in 2019, 2020 and 2021.The results indicate significant decrease in the intensity of the attack on seedlings grown unshaded by the old trees. After first year, there was no difference in average height of the treated and untreated seedlings grown after the intermediate felling, while the difference was evident after second and third year. Such results indicate cumulative effect of the oak lace bug attack on the seedlings of the penduculate oak. On the other hand, during whole experiment, the differences between treated and untreated plant average height after the final felling were not evident.

Climate Change and Invasive Insects in Forest Ecosystems - Recent Examples from Türkiye

Recent climate changes -in contrast to changes in the past- are faster, and humans play a significant role in speeding up the process. Fauna usually responds strikingly to the changing climate; however, effects on animal species varies greatly. Indirect effects on insects through their host plants like the shifted shooting time, and the changed chemical composition and texture of the plant are significant. Direct effects like changes of the climatic elements (temperature, humidity) may cause a wide range of reactions, like change of the distribution area (e.g., northward shift) and/or change in the insects’ biology (e.g., swarming time, generation cycle). The presence of invasive insects is usually not associated with changing climatic factors. Their arrival is mainly human activity driven and the changing climatic factors may promote their establishment only. Introductions are accidental in most cases, but there are also plenty of examples of intentionally introduced species. In this paper, we demonstrate the effect of invasive insect species on the forest ecosystems in Türkiye through the examples of the western conifer seed bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis), the box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis), the Asian longhorn beetles (Anoplophora glabripennis & A. chinensis), the chestnut gall wasp (Dryocosmus kuriphilus), the oak lace bug (Corythucha arcuata) and the black stem borer (Xylosandrus germanus). The importance of invasive forest insect monitoring is also discussed.

Study on the Ecology, Biology and Ethology of the Invasive Species Corythucha arcuata Say, 1832 (Heteroptera: Tingidae), a Danger to Quercus spp. in the Climatic Conditions of the City of Sibiu, Romania

This scientific paper examines the impact of climate change on the spread and survival of the invasive species Corythucha arcuata Say, 1832 (oak lace bug, or OLB) in Romania. The OLB is native to the Eastern USA and Canada, and in its native habitat, it coexists with minimal impact to the preferred host plant species Quercus. However, in Europe, the OLB in high density causes early defoliation, slowing tree growth. As Quercus spp. is a keystone species, the impact of the OLB on European forests is significant. This paper aims to address several gaps in knowledge about the OLB by presenting findings from a study conducted by the Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu (ULBS) in Romania. The study identified the species’ chronology of spread, ecology, ethology and biology of the species, in addition to foliage classification to determine the extent of attack. The study found a direct link between the temperature and the speed of the generational lifecycle. The findings support the thesis that climate change is enabling the healthy, rapid density growth of OLB, which is a danger to the Quercus spp. Further research is needed in the area of the thermal tolerance of the OLB, and the research conducted by the ULBS represents the first documented research into the thermal constant of the insect. The paper concludes that further research must be in the direction to understand how and where these insects survive during winter to find future management measures and identify chemical or biological methods as solutions to eradicate and stop the expansion of the invasion of the OLB, and the potential consequences for the Quercus sp.

Cold tolerance of the invasive oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata

Abstract The North American oak lace bug (OLB), Corythucha arcuata, is an invasive species in Europe and a serious threat to oak‐dominated forests. Survival at low temperatures is one major factor determining the spread of invasive insects. Thus, we studied key traits, that is, cold‐tolerance strategy, supercooling points (SCP) and chilling‐related mortality, of overwintering adults to assess their potential to withstand harsh winters. Samples for SCP measurements were collected once a month from November 2020 until March 2021 at three different locations in Hungary; specimens for chilling experiments were sampled in November 2020, January 2021 and March 2021. SCPs of overwintering adults ranged from −29.68 to −7.49 °C, with only moderate variation among months; C. arcuata is a freeze‐avoidant species. Mortality rates of adults exposed to two sub‐zero temperatures above the SCP (−3 and −5 °C) for 1, 2 and 3 weeks ranged between 0% and 69.1%, suggesting that OLB has a moderate risk to die from chilling injuries. Exposure time and sampling date affected mortality, with lowest survival rates after 3 weeks, collected in March 2021.