[Originally published in the Fall 2018 issue of the Green Bulletin. Modified slightly from original.]
Invasive insects and diseases are threatening numerous tree species throughout the country. Impacts include tree mortality, destruction of forest and urban habitats, and other significant changes in forest ecosystems due to the decline or elimination of tree species. Many of these pests can be transported in inadequately-processed wood, including firewood and discarded wood debris left behind from tree care operations (Figure 1). Preventing the spread of these pests to new areas is critical for...
The Asian citrus psyllid is an insect that can carry a deadly tree disease called Huanglongbing or citrus greening. To help educate people about the seriousness of this disease, how it spreads, and how to deal with it, the UC IPM program has published an updated version of the Pest Notes: Asian Citrus Psyllid and Huanglongbing Disease, by experts Elizabeth Grafton-Cardwell and Matt Daugherty.
- Author: Tunyalee A. Martin
During California Invasive Species Action Week (June 2 – June 10), we highlighted several pests, but there are many more invasive species out there. Now that you know about them, share your knowledge of invasive species with others. And no matter what your summer plans, here are some things YOU can do about invasive species from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and California Department of Food and Agriculture.
YOU: I'M TRAVELING TO AMAZING PLACES
- Learn what plants and animals you can bring into California.
This week, we put the spotlight on invasive species and how these non-native plants, animals, and pathogens damage California's economy and environment.
You Can Make a Difference
Shot hole borers and the diseases they carry, and Asian citrus psyllid and huanglongbing disease are serious invasive pests of concern. Do your part to help prevent their spread. If you go camping this summer, don't move firewood from your home to the campground. For backyard citrus growers, find out if you are in a quarantine zone for Asian citruspsyllid. You can make a difference. Read the posts above to find out...
Shot hole borers are tiny insects the size of a sesame seed that don't look particularly harmful, but don't let their diminutive size fool you. Two of these borers are invasive—the polyphagous shot hole borer and the Kuroshio shot hole borer. They carry pathogens and are spreading them throughout southern California. Together, the borers and the fungi are a deadly combination that are killing many trees. Trees affected include avocado, sycamore, white alder, box elder, cottonwood, and willow.
The two shot hole borers are nearly identical in appearance, and both have a symbiotic relationship with several pathogenic fungi. The female borers lay eggs which introduces fungi into trees. The fungi grow and provide food for...
