Abstract
Potato production can be negatively affected by several species of psyllids. In addition to their damage through direct feeding, some species of psyllids may also transmit plant pathogens, which can result in reductions in yield and quality. This chapter introduces several species of psyllids in potato and discusses their biology, ecology, damage, and management. Particular emphasis is placed on the potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli, and the pathogen, “Candidatus Liberibacter solanacerum” (Lso). Lso is associated with a potato disease known as zebra chip (ZC). This devastating disease is found in several key potato-producing regions across North America, and apparent introductions of the potato psyllid and/or Lso have occurred in New Zealand, part of Australia, and Ecuador. In addition to summarizing what is known about other psyllid pests of potato, this chapter presents recent developments in potato psyllid and Lso population genetics, ZC epidemiology, and disease management and proposes avenues for further research.