UF/IFAS Pest Alert
The red ring nematode, Bursaphelenchus cocophilus, causes the red ring disease that can kill palm and coconut trees. This nematode gets its name from the red lesion, around 3-5 cm wide, that forms on the trunks of infected palms (See… Read More
Plant-feeding nematodes are an important problem for plants. These microscopic worms live in the soil and feed on roots, reducing the health of the plant. If you have seen galls on tomato roots, you have seen classic nematode… Read More
Are there leaf galls on your lychee tree? A pest new to Florida could be responsible. The lychee mite (Aceria litchii) causes galls on leaves of lychee and longan trees. The mite is microscopic, but it can cause… Read More
Have you ever removed a plant in your garden and noticed some swellings on the roots? You could be having a visit from root-knot nematodes (RKN). As the female RKN develops and the body expands, the root tissues… Read More
Have you noticed patchy areas of yellowing or wilting turfgrass in your yard? Are there areas that are thin and declining? If so, nematodes might be feeding on the roots of your turfgrass. What are nematodes? Nematodes are… Read More
The oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) is a highly invasive pest that causes severe damage to fruits and vegetables. The oriental fruit fly (OFF) can attack and cause injury to over 470 fruits and vegetables. Crops such as… Read More
The Florida Invasive Species Awareness Week (FLISAW) is here again. The FLISAW is a nationwide endeavor to engage the public and communities on the threat of invasive species and how they can get involved in the ongoing efforts… Read More
Do you want the opportunity to learn from professionals and hear from key UF researchers, all from the comfort of your home? Here are five grand events from FDACS, FNGLA, and other CEUs. Check out any of the… Read More
One of the most recent trendy global news of an invasive insect species is the Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia). The Asian giant hornet is the largest hornet species in the world, hence the name ‘giant.’ The Asian… Read More
As you could guess from the name, the squash bug, Anasa tristis, is a pest of squash and all other relatives of squash. The squash bug is common in the United States, especially in areas where these crops are grown. In Florida, several generations of… Read More
