UF/IFAS Scientist Publishes New Data on Insect Causing Lethal Disease in Palm Trees
A University of Florida scientist has published an in-depth look at the insect responsible for infecting more than a dozen species of palm trees worldwide, including the official state tree, with a deadly disease known as lethal bronzing.
Homeowners, nursery managers, arborists, and landscapers now have access to the first of what will be many resources to help identify, monitor, and manage the pest and disease, which has had significant economic and aesthetic impacts to 19 palm tree species. “American palm cixiid haplaxius crudus van duzee (insecta: hemiptera: cixiidae)” made its debut this month on Ask IFAS, UF/IFAS’ Electronic Data Information Source (EDIS) peer-reviewed site.
“This first in a series of publications is an update that focuses on the insect causing the disease,” said Brian Bahder, an assistant professor at UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center.
Bahder has been leading a team of researchers studying the disease and insect. “The publication, designed for residents and industry professionals lays the foundation for identifying, monitoring and managing the vector. As we continue to learn more about this insect, we will continue to give recommendations for how to control and how to identify it in different habitats.”
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