Dynamics of Scaphoideus titanus population in southern South Tyrol (Italy) and detection of Grapevine Flavescence Dorée phytoplasma in the insect with a multiplex real-time PCR

In South Tyrol the population of Scaphoideus titanus, the vector of Grapevine Flavescence doree phytoplasma (FD), has been steadily increasing since 2010. The present work provides an overview of the monitoring activity of Scaphoideus titanus in South Tyrolean vineyards coupled with the description of a sensitive and reliable detection method of FD in the insect vector. We have developed an endogenous control of Scaphoideus titanus to be used in a multiplex real-time PCR, amplifying the map gene of FD phytoplasma. We present evidence on the performance of this new vector reference and its compatibility with FD detection.