ARS | Publication request: Attraction of Redbay Ambrosia Beetle (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) to Avocado, Lychee, and Essential Oil Lures

Submitted to: Florida Entomological Society Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: June 9, 2010
Publication Date: July 26, 2010
Citation: Kendra, P.E., Montgomery, W.S., Niogret, J., Pena, J.A., Epsky, N.D., Heath, R.R. 2010. Attraction of Redbay Ambrosia Beetle (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) to Avocado, Lychee, and Essential Oil Lures. Florida Entomological Society Annual Meeting.

Technical Abstract: The redbay ambrosia beetle (RAB, Xyleborus glabratus) is a wood-boring pest that vectors laurel wilt, a lethal vascular disease that currently threatens Florida avocados. Field and laboratory studies were conducted to evaluate attraction of RAB to avocado wood (three races), lychee wood, and two commercial lures (manuka and phoebe oils). Results indicated (1) no strong preference among avocado races, (2) greater attraction to lychee vs avocado, and (3) greater attraction to phoebe oil vs manuka oil.