Population dynamics of three economically-important Erythroneura species present in Californian vineyards

Western grape leafhopper (Erythroneura elegantula) and variegated leafhopper (E. variabilis), long-established phytophagous pests of grapevines in California, have recently been displaced by the Virginia creeper leafhopper (E. ziczac) in some production regions. However, limited information is known regarding Virginia creeper leafhopper biology in Californian vineyards. Weekly sampling of eggs, nymphs, and adults of all three species in untreated blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah over two consecutive grape-growing seasons were conducted to compare their population dynamics.  Results indicate that Virginia creeper leafhopper oviposit earlier than the other two established species and ultimately outcompetes after successive generations. These data can be used to optimize sampling procedures and timing control measures for the Erythroneura leafhopper complex in grape vineyards.