Xylella-fastidiosa-vector
Guides
Draeculacephala minerva
grass sharpshooter, green sharpshooter
Draeculacephala minerva is a leafhopper species in the family Cicadellidae, commonly known as the grass sharpshooter or green sharpshooter. It is native to North America and has been documented as a vector of Xylella fastidiosa, a bacterial pathogen that causes Pierce's disease in grapevines and other plant diseases. The species is closely related to Draeculacephala robinsoni, which has recently been introduced to Europe and poses similar agricultural threats. Its eggs are parasitized by several species of Trichogrammatidae and Mymaridae wasps in California.
Philaenus spumarius
Meadow Spittlebug, Meadow Froghopper
Philaenus spumarius is a small spittlebug (5–7 mm) in the family Aphrophoridae, native to the Palearctic and introduced to North America. The species exhibits extreme color polymorphism with approximately 20 known color varieties ranging from yellowish and brownish to black. Nymphs produce characteristic foam masses for protection, while adults are strong jumpers and capable fliers. It has become economically significant as the primary European vector of Xylella fastidiosa, the bacterium causing Olive Quick Decline Syndrome and Pierce's disease in grapevines.