Notes on the biology and the pest status of Antispila sp. (Lepidoptera: Heliozelidae) in North-eastern Italy

Recently, the Nearctic leafminer Antispila sp. (Lepidoptera: Heliozelidae) has been reported as a new invasive pest in North-Italian vineyards. It has been widely detected in the Trentino and Veneto Regions, both in unsprayed and commercial vineyards. Morphological and molecular studies strongly suggest an American origin of this species. The life cycle of Antispila sp. has been investigated in two vineyards located in Trentino and Veneto Regions in 2010. Two to three generations can be completed annually depending on environmental conditions. The impact of natural antagonists in controlling Antispila sp. populations appeared to be low to moderate. The incidence of infestation can reach significant levels with possible implications for yields