ARS | Publication request: Chemical Control of the Redbay Ambrosia Beetle, Xyleborus glabratus (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) in Florida

Submitted to: Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: December 2, 2010
Publication Date: December 15, 2010
Citation: Pena, J.E., Crane, J.H., Capinera, J.L., Cave, R.D., Duncan, R.E., Kendra, P.E., Mclean, S. 2010. Chemical Control of the Redbay Ambrosia Beetle, Xyleborus glabratus (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) in Florida . Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting. http://esa.confex.com/esa/2010/webprogram/paper49372.html.

Technical Abstract: The redbay ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus glabratus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), is an exotic pest of U.S. trees in the family Lauraceae, including avocado (Persea americana) and redbay (P. borbonia). It threatens avocado production in Florida by transmitting Raffaelea lauricola, the fungal pathogen that causes laurel wilt disease in this important fruit crop. While chemical pesticides are not viewed as the only solution to this problem, immediate control tactics are needed for use by the avocado growers. Field tests were conducted using either avocado bolts (logs) treated with a pesticide or by applying pesticide directly to young trees of avocado and redbay. Thirteen products, including systemic and contact insecticides, were evaluated for efficacy in reducing beetle entry and transmission of the laurel wilt pathogen.