No detection of Xylella fastidiosa in cicadas (Hemiptera, Cicadidae) sampled in infected areas of Corsica (France)

Studies investigating X. fastidiosa (Xf) acquisition by cicadas are scarce. We collected 169 cicadas in infected areas throughout Corsica (France), belonging to the four species known from the island (Cicada orni; Cicadetta fangoana; Tibicina corsica corsica and Tibicina nigronervosa). All specimens were tested for the presence of Xf using a two-step PCR approach followed by Illumina sequencing. All specimens tested negative. So far, there is no indication that European cicadas are playing a significant role in the spread of Xf.