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Amauromyza elaeagni

Russian olive leafminer

Description

Amauromyza elaeagni is a leaf-mining fly from the family Agromyzidae, known for its monophagous relationship with Elaeagnus angustifolia (Russian olive). The species is distributed across Europe and parts of Asia, including Russia. Adult flies lay eggs on the upper surface of leaves, and the larvae create mines as they feed on the mesophyll tissue. These mines begin as narrow linear paths and eventually expand into larger blotches. Frass of the larvae is deposited in short, narrow sections at the beginning or in the center of the blotch mine.

The feeding activity of Amauromyza elaeagni impacts the aesthetic appearance of the host plant, creating visible discolorations and deformations on leaves. Even though heavy infestations rarely impair the tree's health, they can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and significantly diminish the plant's aesthetic value, especially in ornamental plantings in parks and gardens.

Symptom

Mines are narrow at the start, later forming larger blotches. Frass is visible as short threads in shorter parts. The affected areas turn pale or yellowish. Sometimes leaves start become dry and have curled edges.

Tree Species: Russian olive

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes