Migal Galilee Technology Center Reports Findings in Xylella (A new vector of Xylella fastidiosa: The role of Mesoptyelus impictifrons as a vector in Israel).

A recent report from the Migal Galilee Technology Center in Kiryat Shmona, Israel, discusses the identification of a potential vector for the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa in almond orchards and vineyards in northern Israel. The researchers found that the spittlebug Mesoptyelus impictifrons was the most abundant and widely distributed species in the area, and experiments showed that it could acquire and transmit the bacterium. Further studies are needed to understand the biology, ecology, and role of Mesoptyelus impictifrons as a vector for Xylella fastidiosa. This research has been peer-reviewed and published in the journal Phytopathology. [Extracted from the article]