Occurrence of the two spotted leafhopper Sophonia orientalis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) on avocado orchards in Gharb and Loukkos regions, Morocco

Abstract

This study documents the recent occurrence of Sophonia orientalis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) on avocado ( Persea americana ) crops in the Gharb and Loukkos regions of northwest Morocco. Species identification was validated through morphological examination of male genitalia and DNA analysis using standard barcoding techniques . The Two spotted leafhopper S. orientalis is a polyphagous and invasive pest native to Southeast Asia, and it has been recorded in various locations around the world. In Morocco, the area planted with avocados is constantly increasing due to the crop's profitability. However, the emergence of leafhoppers poses significant phytosanitary threats to growers. Identification based on male genitalia features and confirmation by DNA sequencing revealed infestations of S. orientalis , with high sequence identity (99.11%–100%) to reference sequences in GenBank. Field surveys from March to September 2024 showed that S. orientalis infestations were mostly found in areas between Moulay Bousselham and Sidi Allal Tazi, with up to 50% of the inspected avocado orchards indicating its establishment in those regions. Although no crop losses have yet been reported in Morocco due to S. orientalis , its confirmed establishment in a significant proportion of avocado orchards and its invasive nature in other regions justify the early implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Coordinated efforts among agricultural authorities, researchers, and farmers are essential to safeguard Morocco's avocado industry while maintaining sustainable agricultural practices.

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