The expected journey of Xylella fastidiosa: insects, plants and landscapes of an epidemic

Abstract

The emergence of Xylella fastidiosa in Europe has profoundly affected agriculture and Mediterranean landscapes. Its spread reflects the encounter between the fastidious bacterium, susceptible plants, and insect vectors, occurring in the context of a conducive combination of landscape structure, climatic conditions and management practices. This seminar follows that journey, exploring the biological and ecological interactions underlying the epidemic. Particular attention will be given to xylem sap-feeding insects, which play a pivotal role in the spread of the bacterium. The way these insects perceive and interact with their surroundings shapes opportunities for transmission. Drawing on European research and parallels with epidemics in the Americas, I will discuss how knowledge of vector behavior and ecology can inform surveillance, prevention and sustainable disease management.

The speaker

Daniele Cornara is an Associate Professor of General and Applied Entomology at the Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Italy. His research focuses on the biology, ecology and behaviour of insect vectors of plant pathogens, with particular emphasis on Xylella fastidiosa and its vectors. He investigates how intraspecific and interspecific interactions, together with abiotic factors and agronomic practices, shape vector behaviour and pathogen epidemiology. Building on this knowledge, his group develops biomimetic approaches to sustainable vector management, drawing on natural signals and interactions to manipulate vector behaviour and disrupt pathogen transmission.