[News release from the Citrus Pest & Disease Prevention Program]

An intensive risk survey in Cerritos, Los Angeles County, resulted in the discovery of Huanglongbing in a single orange tree. California Department of Food and Agriculture staff began the survey after a sample of Asian citrus psyllids from the area was found to be positive for the bacteria that causes HLB.

The diseased tree was located across the street from the property where bacteria-carryingpsyllids were detected.PCR testing confirmed the disease yesterday, but the diseased tree was actually removed last week thanks to the homeowners proactively granting permissiontoCDFA staff. This is another example of the risk surveyhelpingCDFA staff find anderadicateHLB positive trees, and successfully collaborate with homeowners in urban areas.

The survey in Cerritos is nearly complete, and mandatory Asian citrus psyllid treatments will begin Jan. 9. This detection will result in a new HLB quarantine encompassing portions of Los Angeles and Orange Counties. A quarantine map will be released shortly. CDFA recently completed treatments in San Gabriel and is nearing completion on treatments in Hacienda Heights; surveys in both areas will continue.

For information about the Asian citrus psyllid and huanglongbing disease and what you can do to prevent and monitor for the pest, visit the ANR ACP/HLB Distribution and Management web site and UC IPM's Pest Note: Asian Citrus Psyllid and Huanglongbing Disease.

 

Photos: Adults and Nymphs