Corythauma ayyari(Insecta, Heteroptera, Tingidae) depends on its host plant to invade Europe

Abstract

Biological invasions increase with the intensity of globalization, human activities, and climate change. Insects represent a high potential of invasive species due to their adaptability to new environment. We analysed here the invasiveness of an Asian phytophagous bug,Corythauma ayyari(Heteroptera, Tingidae), recently recorded in Europe, and that depends onJasminumspp., an ornamental plant widespread in Europe. We modelled its current distribution, projected it into the future and tested its niche overlap between native and invaded areas. When considering the host plant as environmental variable, the analysis shows thatC. ayyarishifted to a new ecological niche but its distribution is restricted by its host plant distribution. Including or excluding the host plant as environmental variable has an impact on species distribution and should be considered when dealing with phytophagous species.