Glassy-winged sharpshooter

Definition

A large cicadellid leafhopper (Homalodisca vitripennis) native to the southeastern United States and northeastern Mexico, distinguished by its transparent, reddish-veined wings and robust body. A significant agricultural pest and vector of plant pathogenic bacteria, notably Xylella fastidiosa, which causes Pierce's disease of grapevines, citrus variegated chlorosis, and other economically important diseases in woody crops.

Etymology

Common name refers to the glassy, translucent appearance of the forewings; 'sharpshooter' derives from the insect's habit of forcibly expelling liquid excreta in a fine stream.

Example

In California vineyards, the glassy-winged sharpshooter's invasion in the 1990s triggered major quarantine and control programs because its xylem-feeding habit and efficient transmission of Xylella fastidiosa threatened the state's wine industry.

Synonyms

• Homalodisca vitripennis

Related Terms

• sharpshooter
• leafhopper
• Cicadellidae
• Xylella fastidiosa
• Pierce's disease
• xylem feeder
• Vector
• hemipteran
• plant disease ecology

Usage Notes

Often abbreviated GWSS in agricultural literature. Distinguished from other sharpshooters by larger size, more dispersive flight behavior, and broader host range. The species name was formerly H. coagulata; vitripennis is now accepted. Invasive populations in California and Hawaii differ in ecology from native-range populations. Not to be confused with other 'glassy-winged' insects such as the glassy-winged moth (Sphingidae).