Ribautiana tenerrima
(Herrich-Schäffer, 1834)
Bramble Leafhopper
Ribautiana tenerrima, commonly known as the Bramble Leafhopper, is a European leafhopper that has become an established agricultural pest in western North America. Both nymphs and feed on phloem sap from cane fruit leaves, causing distinctive white stippling damage. Severe during dry seasons result in leaf curling, reduced cane vigor, and diminished fruit size. The species was first documented in North America in 1947 near Victoria, British Columbia, and has since spread to southern Vancouver Island and the lower Fraser Valley.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ribautiana tenerrima: //rɪˌbɔːtiˈænə təˈnɛrɪmə//
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Habitat
Cultivated cane fruit plantings, specifically bramble crops including raspberry and blackberry (Rubus spp.). The has been observed in agricultural settings on southern Vancouver Island and in the lower Fraser Valley of British Columbia.
Distribution
Native to Europe; introduced to North America. First reported in North America in 1947 near Victoria, British Columbia. Established occur on southern Vancouver Island and in the lower Fraser Valley. Additional distribution records include the Azores (Faial), Italy (Apulia), New Zealand (Auckland), and Russia (Bashkortostan).
Diet
Phloem sap extracted from leaves of cane fruits, specifically Rubus spp. (brambles, raspberry, blackberry). Both nymphs and feed on the same tissue.
Host Associations
- Rubus spp. - primary Cane fruits including raspberry and blackberry; sole documented for feeding and presumably
Behavior
Nymphs and aggregate on leaves to feed, inserting stylets to access phloem sap. Feeding activity produces visible white stippling on upper leaf surfaces. During dry seasons, heavy feeding pressure causes leaves to curl and develop a burned appearance. The reduces plant vigor and fruit yield through sustained sap removal.
Ecological Role
Agricultural pest in introduced range; no documented native ecological role provided in available sources.
Human Relevance
Significant economic pest of bramble fruit crops. reduce cane vigor and fruit size, impacting commercial raspberry and blackberry production. Management concerns exist for growers in southern British Columbia.