

Researchers find wasp can control spotted gum psyllid
The Issue

Psyllid1 — Adult Spotted gum eucalyptus psyllid. The white substance is the side of the lerp produced by an immature psyllid of sugar, wax, and excrement. It shelters the developing psyllid.
What Has ANR Done?
With funding from the UC Exotic/Invasive Pests and Diseases Research Program, a successful biological control for the spotted gum psyllid has been found. After testing various species, one parasitoid, Psyllaephagus nr. Sp. hirtus, was found to be effective at controlling the spotted gum psyllid without destroying other beneficial species.The Payoff
The next step is statewide biological control against spotted gum psyllid
Parasites have been released and have become established in many communities in California. In the coastal regions of the state, the parasite is starting to control the pest to the point where many infested trees will be saved. Biological controls such as this enable us to control pests without pesticides.Contact
Supporting Unit:
Integrated Pest ManagementStephanie Klunk
Senior Writer
UC Statewide IPM Program
One Shields Avenue
Davis, CA 95616
(530) 754-6724