Philip A. Stansly, pstansly@ufl.edu and Jawwad A. Qureshi, jawwadq@ufl.edu. University of Florida - IFAS, Entomology and Nematology, SWFREC, 2686 State Road 29 North, Immokalee, FL
Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) is a vector of greening or huanglongbing, a devastating disease of citrus spreading throughout Florida. Therefore, psyllid suppression is a key component of greening management. ACP can only reproduce on young flush but survives as adults in winter by feeding on mature foliage. Broad spectrum foliar and soil applied insecticides were applied either alone or in concert with soil applications of aldicarb during the dormant season to suppress adult populations. The immediate impact on adult populations and subsequent effect during the growing season were evaluated as well as effects on natural enemies. One application of dormant sprays, significantly reduced psyllid populations for over 5 months. Reinforcement with aldicarb generally improved control. Few ladybeetles were present when sprays were applied but reappeared later to feed on aphids and psyllids in the spring flush. Maintenance of these predators may explain the prolonged suppression of ACP observed. Thus, dormant sprays appear to be providing pest suppression for many months with apparently minimal ecological liability.
Species 1: Hemiptera Psyllidae
Diaphorina citri (Asian citrus psyllid)