The three-cornered alfalfa treehopper (Spissistilus festinus) has been confirmed as a vector for red blotch disease, but researchers say there may be others. (Courtesy of Clemson University, USDA) Researchers at the University of California, Davis, have identified the three-cornered alfalfa treehopper (Spissistilus festinus) as the first known vector for red blotch-associated virus in greenhouse experiments. The researchers caution that the discovery does not mean the treehopper is the only vector. However, the finding opens new avenues for research to help control both the virus and the pest in areas it is known to roam. The hopper is native to North […]