Coastal Cicada

Systematic position. Diceroprocta vitripennis belongs to the order Hemiptera and the family Cicadidae. This insect is characterized by its transparent wings, as indicated by its specific epithet, and is primarily found in various regions across North America.

Crops affected. This species is a generalist feeder (polyphage). It primarily attacks a variety of woody plants and shrubs. In the agricultural sector, it causes significant damage to orchards and vineyards, and it can also be found on ornamental trees and forest species, potentially reducing their overall health and vigor.

Biology and life cycle. The life cycle of this cicada involves an extended nymphal stage spent underground, where nymphs feed on the sap of plant roots. The adults (imago) emerge during the summer months, showing high activity and producing their characteristic loud mating calls. Reproduction involves laying eggs within the tissues of woody stems, which is a critical phase of their life cycle.

Damage patterns and economic impact. The primary damage occurs when females lay their eggs. Using their ovipositors, they create deep slits in young twigs, which leads to mechanical tissue damage, wilting of the shoots, and eventual breakage of branches. These damaged areas serve as entry points for fungal infections and further weaken the host plant.

Control measures. Managing Diceroprocta vitripennis requires a combination of cultural and chemical methods. Key recommendations include:

• Regular sanitary pruning of damaged twigs to remove and destroy egg nests.
• Using protective netting on young trees during the peak adult emergence period.
• Applying systemic insecticides when pest populations reach critical levels in orchards.
• Maintaining general plant health to improve the natural resistance of trees and shrubs to pest attacks.