This study aimed to identify potential vectors of the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa in olive orchards in La Rioja Province, Argentina. Hoppers (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha) were collected during the spring of 2019 from localities with a high incidence of this pathogen in olive trees and associated spontaneous vegetation. Of the 14 species identified, eight tested positive for X. fastidiosa subsp. pauca. The ability to transmit this xylem-inhabiting bacterium is directly linked to the feeding habits of its vectors. The xylem-feeding species Bucephalogonia xanthophis (Berg), Ciminius albolineatus (Taschenberg), and Notozulia entreriana (Berg) tested positive and are confirmed carriers of X. fastidiosa. Consequently, these species may be considered potential vectors in olive orchards in La Rioja and represent suitable candidates for further epidemiological studies aimed at confirming their role as effective vectors of the bacterium. Highlights: • Fourteen species of Auchenorrhyncha (Hemiptera) were recorded in olive orchards affected by Olive Quick Decline in La Rioja, Argentina. • Standard PCR assays enabled the confirmation of Xylella fastidiosa pauca in eight species. • The xylem-feeding species Bucephalogonia xanthophis, Ciminius albolineatus (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), and Notozulia entreriana (Hemiptera: Cercopidae) tested positive for Xylella fastidiosa and are considered potential vectors of the bacterium in olive orchards in La Rioja, Argentina.
Defea et al. (Fri,) studied this question.