First report of Melanagromyza cuscutae (Diptera: Agromyzidae) from Poland

Field surveys of the parasitic plant Cuscuta lupuliformis (Convolvulaceae) conducted in Poland in 2018 revealed extensive infestations by larvae of the monophagous fly Melanagromyza cuscutae (Diptera: Agromyzidae). Thirty to 60% of dodder populations were infested in sample areas from alluvial forests, scrubs, flood embankments, and wasteland habitats. This is the first report of M. cuscutae from Poland and north of the Carpathians, significantly expanding its range northwards. This fly has potential as a biological control agent of dodders, because of larval feeding resulting in damage, necrosis, and reduced seed production of this parasitic plant.