Leafhoppers species richness and abundance on corn crops in Argentina (Insecta-Hemiptera-Cicadellidae)

Leafhoppers affect diverse crops, and particularly corn (Zea mays L.), whose production is severely diminished by diseases of diverse etyology. In Argentina, the only known Cicadellidae species with vector capacity of com diseases is Dalbulus maidis, an important pest in tropical and subtropical areas of America. Due to the significance of the diseases and the lack of information about the leafhopper communities' composition, a survey was conducted to determine the relative importance and abundance of the species that inhabits maize crops in Argentina. The leafhoppers were collected with entomological nets in 50 localities in 12 provinces of Argentina, during 1993-2000. Overall, 25 species were detected. This study determined differences on the leafhopper communities between areas where the crop is located, and/or the phenological stages of maize; the information is shown in tables. The known geographical distribution of five species is enlarged.