ARS | Publication request: Identification and definitions of Electrical Penetration Graph (EPG) waveforms for the potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli, on susceptible potato.

Submitted to: Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: September 30, 2010
Publication Date: November 1, 2010
Citation: Pearson, C.C., Backus, E.A., Munyaneza, J.E. 2010. Identification and definitions of Electrical Penetration Graph (EPG) waveforms for the potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli, on susceptible potato. Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, Dec 12-15, 2010, San Diego, CA. Available: http://esa.confex.com/esa/2010/webprogram/Paper50357.html.

Technical Abstract: The potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli, is the vector of Ca. Liberibacter psyllaurous/solanacearum, a bacterium associated with a lethal potato disease with tuber-striping symptoms, termed Zebra Chip (ZC). Presently, there are no effective management tactics for ZC, although research to aid development of host plant resistance is actively underway in several laboratories. Electrical Penetration Graph (EPG) monitoring of psyllid feeding and ZC acquisition/inoculation behaviors can be used to accelerate development of resistant host plants. However, first it is necessary to identify and define EPG waveforms representing these behaviors. Research presented is the first-ever EPG study of potato psyllid stylet penetration. Four major and several minor waveform types were identified from psyllid feeding on ‘Atlantic’ potato. The four major waveforms were recorded at five input resistances using both AC and DC substrate voltages, and a complete library of these waveforms was compiled. The biopotential (emf) and resistance components of each waveform were identified, thereby allowing preliminary interpretation of fluid flow dynamics/direction, valve and mouthpart movements, and salivation. Plant tissues in which these waveforms are performed were identified, using light microscopy of salivary sheath termini. The totality of information for each waveform is presented, providing biological definition.