The check on monitoring points highlighted the presence of "galle" , that is to say deformations on yellow leaves containing mature larvae of a parasite that deserves the right attention: the Olive leaf cecidomia (Dasineura Oleae). It is a small diptera that attacks the young leaves, but sometimes also the floral little fingers. It is considered a secondary or minor insect, but which can become relevant,
After the deposition of eggs, which are of Orange colour and are visible on the leaves and on the growing young tips, the larvae of Cecidomy, immediately after hatching, penetrate the leaf tissue and cause their anomalous growth with the formation of the "float", in which it will complete all the development up to the adult stage.
The deformation of the leaves and shoots determines a reduction of chlorophyll photosynthesis and, consequently, a decline in production. The Leaf cecidomia it can only carry out its life cycle on the olive tree: it normally completes one generation a year, overwintering as a second-age larva, but it is also possible that two generations can be recorded in the space of twelve months.
There are more parasitoids which limit its development, belonging to the order of Hymenoptera.
In the event of certain necessity, as a defense intervention - with the use of integrated pest management - one can resort toacetamiprid (eg Epik SL), with which it is possible to carry out an intervention against larvae which, when the eggs hatch, penetrate inside the plant tissues. For this adversity is allowed one application per year. It should be considered that Acetamiprid is allowed for a maximum of two treatments a year, regardless of the adversity, and is also used for the olive fly; therefore, any treatment is to be evaluated only in the event that strong attacks have occurred in the previous year and must in any case be implemented near the start of ovipositionapproximately at the end of April.
For the defence in organic rock powders are to be used, such as the kaolin which acts as an antideponent: its application must precede the appearance of the larvae.
AIPO Director
Interregional Association
Olive producers
