Fruit tree pest
Persimmon Leafhopper (Zorka sp.)
Order: Hempitera
Family: Cicadellidae
▶Scientific name: Zorka sp.
▶Size: Adult body length 3-4 mm
▶Host plant: Persimmon (Diosyros kaki)
▶Distribution: Korea etc.
The adult insect measures approximately 3-4 mm length. Its forewings are milky white with pale yellow patterns. The nymphs have a milky white or light green body with similar yellowish markings.
Damage appears as small white spots (less than 1mm in diameter) on the upper surface of persimmon leaves, usually concentrated around the veins. When infestations are severe, these white specks spread to cover the entire leaf surface. The symptoms resemble those caused y the Persimmon Basket Scale (Eulecanium Kuwanai), but the latter produces yellowish spots on the upper side of leaves and leaves the underside dirty with honeydew and sooty mold - a key distinguishing feature.
The detailed life cycle of Zorka sp. Has not yet been clarified, but it is presumed that adults overwinter and that both adults and nymphs feed on leaves from early June to early September.
According to literature, this species was first reported in 2008, but earlier records suggest that it was initially observed in 2006 in Banpo-myeon, Gongju City, Korea.
[source: Korean Tree Pest Manual]