Liriomyza congesta (Becker, 1903)
INTRODUCTION
A closely related species is Liriomyza pisivora which has, however, more than three spiracular bulbs at larval posterior spiracles (Spencer, 1973). To distinguish the adults, only the male terminalia are reliable.
By using external characters in earlier literature the species were often confused with trifolii. Before the original American species trifolii became actually established in Europe and North Africa some Liriomyza on Vicia in the Mediterranean region mistakenly were identified as trifolii (Spencer, 1973). On the other hand some more contemporary records of L. congesta might refer to the actual Liriomyza trifolii.
IMPORTANT CHARACTERS
Adults
Wing length: 1.3 - 1.7 mm.
Immature stages
Posterior spiracles with the plesiomorphic condition of three bulbs each. Puparium yellowish brown.
BIONOMICS
The linear leaf mine can be found on the upper side. Pupariation occurs in the ground.
HOST PLANTS
Vicia faba, Pisum sativum, Medicago sativa (lucerne, alfalfa), Lathyrus, ?Cicer, probably some more Fabaceae.
DISTRIBUTION
Widespread in Europe and North Africa. Also records from the East palaearctic region and India (Kashmir).
ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE
The main area, where damage by Liriomyza congesta was reported is the Mediterranean region. The cultivated plant on which damage occurred in the Mediterranean region is Vicia faba. The literature on the control of Liriomyza congesta suggest that the economic significance of congesta on Vicia can be worth mentioning.