Project Number: 6204-22000-018-06
Project Type: Trust

Start Date: Apr 01, 2006
End Date: Dec 31, 2009

Objective:
The objective of this cooperative research project is to determine if glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS) or other leafhoppers are effectively the vector(s) Xylella fastidiosa the suspected causal agent of zebra chip in potatoes. To measure the key biological attributes of GWSS on different potato varieties. To monitor the seasonal occurrence of sharpshooters, leafhoppers and their natural enemies in Texas potatoes and wild host plants. To design and test chemical control methods targeting overwintering refuges of vectors within vicinity of potato fields.

Approach:
Field studies will be conducted in potato fields in Texas, primarily in the Lower Rio Grande Valley to trap and identify potential insect vectors of Xylella fastidiosa. Suspect vectors and wild host plant material will be sent to Frito Lay cooperators for detection of X. fastidiosa. Our hypothesis is that X. fastidiosa vectors come from overwintering refuges in nearby wild host plants. Methods for controlling the vectors in the overwintering stage will be tested. In greenhouse studies, one of the suspect vectors, glassy-winged sharpshooter will be evaluated to determine its preference for selected Frito-Lay potato varieties. The phenology and biology of glassy-winged sharpshooter and its natural enemies in an agricultural settting (potatoes) will be compared with state-wide studies of this insect in undisturbed native habitats.