First Record of the Flea Beetle Psylliodes wrasei Leonardi and Arnold (Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini) in Turkey: A Promising Biological Control Agent for Hoary Cress, Lepidium draba L. (Brassicaceae)

Abstract

Psylliodes wrasei Leonardi and Arnold, 1995 is recorded for the first time from southwest Turkey. Its host plant is determined as Lepidium draba L. (hoary cress), a problematic plant in many agricultural ecosystems capable of thriving in various types of habitats. The flea beetle is defined as one of the most promising biological control agents of this weed in Europe and America. In the present study, information concerning its ecology and habitat in Turkey is presented.