A physiologically-based population model of Philaenus spumarius

The meadow spittlebug, Philaenus spumarius L. (1758) (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae), is considered the main vector of Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) in Europe and Mediterranean, an invasive xylem-limited gram-positive bacteria that represents an important threat to the agriculture and environment of the region. Management strategies targeting the vector P. spumarius for Xf epidemic disruption are focused on controlling juveniles and newly emerged non-infective adults leaving herbivore cover plants. Thus, the development of accurate tools aiming at estimating the phenology of P. spumarius populations in agroecosystems are fundamental to support rational decision-making for schedule monitoring and efficient management in both established and non-established Xf regions. Phenological models are among the most useful tools for predicting the species phenologic dynamics such as diapause emergence, juvenile stage transitions and adult emergence. Therefore, we developed a temperature-driven physiological-based-model to predict the phenological dynamics of P. spumarius during a year. We used data from laboratory experiments to estimate the rate functions describing the key physiological processes of the species life history, and field data to calibrate and validate the model. This information can be used for proper conceptualization and implementation of Integrated Pest Management strategies to control P. spumarius populations and support Xf containment by farmers and stakeholders.