Triology Vol. 36, No. 2, DPI

TRI-OLOGY, Vol. 36, No. 2
Nancy C. Coile, Ph. D., Managing Editor
MARCH-APRIL 1997

Wayne N. Dixon, Ph. D., Editor

BOTANY SECTION
Compiled by Carlos R. Artaud

Added to the herbarium collection during this period were 9 mounted specimens (total of 7,500). James R. Wigelsworth and Maria E. Peacock (R1A1) submitted one specimen new to the herbarium. For this period, 113 specimens were submitted to Botany for identification, and 972 were received from other Sections for identification and/or name verification (for a total of 1,085). Some of the samples are described below:

Alpinia vittata Bull., Zingiberaceae, variegated ginger: Perennial herb; stems leafy; inflorescence terminal. Leaves to 20 cm long and 2.5 cm wide, striped and marked with clear white or cream. Grown for its ornamental foliage, this species seldom flowers. Flowers green, 2-5 per bract; bracts green, tinged pink. (Formerly placed under A. sanderae hort. Native of New Guinea. (Osceola County; B97-078; Belainesh Desta, Division of Animal Industry; 11 March 1997). (Bailey 1976; Huxley 1992).

Blechnum serrulatum L.C. Rich, Blechnaceae, toothed mid-sorus fern: Rhizome widely creeping underground, woody, to about 1 cm thick, the erect branches densely clothed in rigid dark brown scales. Fronds 2 to 3 per plant, rigidly erect, to 10 dm long. Blades linear to broadly oblong, acutish to abruptly acuminate at apex, mostly 3.5-7 dm long, 1-3 dm broad, pinnate throughout. Pinnae very numerous, alternate, oblique, narrowly oblong to ligulate, 15-18 cm long, 5-15 mm broad, sessile at the inequilateral base; costa* elevated, bearing a few short broad yellow-brown scales at either side; veins close, spreading, 1- to 3-forked; margins spinulose-serrulate; sori* costal, extending in a heavy double line nearly to the tip, usually confined to the apical half of the blade; indusia* narrow, concealed at maturity. On hammocks in marshes, and in dense wet coppices. Southern Florida and Mexico through Central America and the West Indies to Brazil. A very similar fern from Asia, B. indicum Burm. f., is apparently the older name if one accepts they are the same taxon. (Osceola County; B97-081; Belainesh Desta; 11 March 1997). (Correll and Correll 1982; Wherry 1964).

Brunfelsia australis Benth., Solanaceae, yesterday-today-and-tomorrow: Shrub to 3.5 m tall, glabrous. Leaves 4-13 cm long, broadly elliptic to obovate, somewhat acute to rounded. Flowers solitary or rarely 2-3 together; calyx to 1.2 cm long, shortly inflated-campanulate; corolla 2.5-3 cm long, 3-4 cm in diameter, purple with white ring at mouth, fades to white. Capsule 1-2 cm in diameter, coriaceous to fleshy. Grown in tropical and subtropical regions for its sweetly fragrant, saucer-shaped flowers. Southern Brazil to Paraguay and Argentina. (Alachua County; B97-105; James R. Wigelsworth and Maria E. Peacock; 19 March 1997). (Huxley 1992).

Caladium bicolor (Ait.) Vent., Araceae, heart-of-Jesus, or caladium: Tuberous perennial. Tuber depressed-globose, to 6 cm in diameter. Leaves 18-45 cm long, 12-25 cm broad, peltate, ovate to elliptic, base cordate to sagittate, lobes often obtuse, green with variable amounts of white, pink or red markings in spots, blotches or bands; petiole variegated. Spathe to 11 cm long, tube green externally, green-white within, limb dull white; male zone of spadix* 2.5-6 cm long. The newest concept of the taxon includes the synonyms C. picturatum K. Koch (with narrower leaves and acute basal lobes) and C. marmoratum Mathieu (with leaves blotched gray, green and ivory on green). The hybrid cultivars were formerly grouped under the name C. x hortulanum Birdsey. There are at least 120 cultivars. From northern South America. (Polk County; B97-120; James C. 'Pete' Lindsay; 1 April 1997). (Huxley 1992; Bailey 1976).

Ceratopteris cornuta (Beauv.) Lepr., Parkeriaceae, broadleaf water fern, broadleaf water sprite: Amphibious fern. Sterile fronds 10-15 cm long, lanceolate, pinnate to bipinnate, pinnules irregularly shaped, variously lobed, to 4 cm long; fertile fronds 2-30 cm long, bipinnate, pinnules linear. Grown in the tropical aquarium, and occasionally as a marginal pool plant for foliage effect. Native of tropical Africa and Madagascar, western Asia to Burma, Indonesia and northern Australia. Columbia County; B97-055; M. 'Janie' Echols; 3 March 1997). (Huxley 1992).

Grevillea banksii R. Br., Proteaceae, spider flower, red flowered silk-oak: Shrub to 4 m tall. Leaves 25 cm long, pinnatifid, cut to midrib, lobes 15 cm long, 0.8 cm wide, linear, silky gray beneath. Flowers red, in cylindrical 10 cm long racemes; style prominent, 4 cm long. A variable species with several prostrate forms. `Albiflora': flowers white. `Kangaroo Slippers' has "capped" flowers: the perianth tube is released from the base, but remains attached to the style, preventing pollen from other flowers to reach the stigma. Native of eastern Australia. (Broward County; B97-147; William A. `Bill' Thiel, Jr.; 15 April 1997). (Huxley 1992).

Macrothelypteris torresiana (Gaudich.) Ching, Thelypteridaceae, Mariana maiden fern: Rhizome short-creeping; scales very narrow, dark brown. Stipes to 50 cm long, glaucous to straw-colored or brown with many dark narrow scales. Frond blades lanceolate, to 70 cm long, 50 cm broad, herbaceous, deeply tripinnatifid, pinnae to 30 cm long, 10 cm broad, to 15 pairs, deltoid, pinnules oblique, deeply lobed at margin, to 8 cm long, 3 cm broad, lobes oblique, dentate, notched or somewhat lobed at margin, to 12 mm long, 5 mm broad, veins to 12-paired, pinnate; rachis and costa pubescent below. Fast growing, useful for sheltering smaller ferns. Favors bright light, and in moist soil will tolerate full sun. Fronds are brittle and readily damaged by wind. The common name "Mariana" refers to its Old World origin: Mascarene Islands, tropical Asia, Japan to Queensland and Polynesia. Naturalized in North America. (Alachua County; B97-127; Patricia Lanzillotti, naturalist; 8 April 1997). (Huxley 1992; Jones 1987; Wherry 1964).

Philadelphus inodorus L., Saxifragaceae, mock-orange, summer-dogwood, English-dogwood: Arching shrub 2-3 m tall, bark of the second year chestnut-brown, peeling; current year's growth hairless. Axillary buds hidden. Leaves 5-9 cm long, 2-4 cm broad (lower leaves much smaller than others), ovate-elliptic or elliptic, more or less entire or faintly toothed, sparsely appressed-hairy or almost glabrous above, sparsely hairy on main veins and vein angles beneath. Flowers 3.5-5.5 cm across, in cymes of 1, 3 or rarely 9 flowers; stalk, ovary, and calyx all hairless exteriorly, but sepals felty-pubescent on inner surfaces; petals 4, white; stamens 20-90 and on the rim of the floral tube; style equal to the longest stamens, hairless, 4 stigmas. Native from Virginia to Alabama, in moist woodlands. (Volusia County; B97-145; L.J. Chambliss and Stacey N. Siewnath; 16 April 1997). (Bailey 1976; Huxley 1992; Godfrey 1988, excellent illustration).

Scutellaria splendens Link ex Klotzsch & Otto `Rose Fountain', Labiatae, rose fountain helmet flower: Erect branching perennial to under 1 m tall, densely hairy. Leaves 4-11 cm long, broadly ovate, base cordate, apex obtuse, irregularly crenate-serrate or sinuate, hairy on both surfaces, paler beneath. Inflorescence a raceme, 15-30 cm long; calyx glandular-hairy, 2-lobed, the upper lobe enlarges in the fruit to form a "skullcap" structure characteristic of Scutellaria; corolla 21-25 mm long, bright rose, tube long slender, lobes short. Native of Mexico. (Hillsborough County; B97-100; Alan R. Haynes; 18 November 1996). (Huxley 1992).

Spiraea cantoniensis Lour., Rosaceae, reeves spiraea, a bridal-wreath: Shrub to 2 m tall, of wide-spreading, graceful habit. Stems erect, outwardly arching, glabrous; branchlets terete, slender, not angled. Leaves 2.5-6.5 cm long, 0.7-2 cm broad, rhombic-lanceolate, coarsely serrate or irregularly trifid, base cuneate to obtuse, dark green and glabrous above, blue-green with distinct reticulate venation beneath; petiole to 8.5 mm long, slender. Flowers 8.5 mm in diameter, white, crowded in hemispheric corymbs to 5 cm in diameter, terminal on young branchlets; pedicels to 1.5 cm long, sometimes with filiform bracteoles at base; sepals upright, deltoid, acute; petals rounded to elliptic, exceeding stamens. A parent of the bridal-wreath, S. x vanhouttei (Briot) Zab., which grows north of Florida. Native of China, and Japan. (Hillsborough County; B97-117; Cindy S. Kamelhair; 2 April 1997). (Huxley 1992; Rehder 1940).

GLOSSARY: costa: veins on a fern frond; indusium (indusia pl.): a flap of tissue (hairs or scales) which covers several sporangia; sorus (sori pl.): a cluster of sporangia; spadix: type of an inflorescence; a fleshy central column bearing many inconspicuous and flowers; usually surrounded by a large showy bract (=spathe).

REFERENCES

L. H. Bailey Hortorium Staff. 1976. Hortus third, a concise dictionary of plants cultivated in the United States and Canada. Macmillan Publishing Company, New York. 1,290 p.
Correll, D. S. and H. B. Correll. 1982. Flora of the Bahama Archipelago. J. Cramer, Hirschberg, Germany. 1,692 p.
Godfrey, R.K. 1988. Trees, shrubs, and woody vines of northern Florida and adjacent Georgia and Alabama. University of Georgia Press, Athens. 734 p.
Huxley, A. J. (ed.) 1992. New Royal Horticultural Society dictionary of gardening. 4 vols. Macmillan Press, London. 3,240 p.
Jones, D. I. 1987. Encyclopedia of ferns. Timber Press, Portland. 433 p.
Rehder, A. 1960. Manual of cultivated trees and shrubs hardy in North America, 2nd edition. The Macmillan Company, New York. 996 p.
Wherry, E. T. 1964. The southern fern guide. Doubleday & Company, Inc., Garden City, New York. 349 p.

ENTOMOLOGY SECTION
Compiled by Susan E. Halbert, Ph.D.

For the month of March, there were 1,132 samples consisting of 17,491+ specimens. In April, there were 5,808+ samples consisting of 18,157+ specimens. Some of the samples processed are listed below:

ORNAMENTALS, WOODY PLANTS AND PALMS: Butia capitata (pindo palm, jelly palm)-- Nipaecoccus nipae (Maskell), coconut mealybug: A moderate to severe infestation involved 20-30% of 150 plants at a nursery in Sanford (Seminole County; E97-000711; Anne F. Weathers; 27 February 1997).

Chorisia speciosa (silk-floss tree)-- Dysdercus suturellus (Herrich-Schaeffer), cotton stainer: A reproducing colony was found in pods at a nursery in Homestead (Dade County; E97-000833; Karen W. LeBoutillier; 7 March 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.

Chrysalidocarpus lutescens (butterfly palm, areca palm)-- Pseudaulacaspis cockerelli (Cooley), magnolia white scale: A severe infestation was found on two plants at a residence in Miami (Dade County; E97-000672; Howard L. Wallace and Matthew W. Brodie; 27 February 1997).

Nolina recurvata (ponytail)-- Hemiberlesia lataniae (Signoret), latania scale: A severe infestation was found at a nursery at Pierson (Volusia County; E97-001530; Stacey N. Siewnath and Floyd J. McHenry; 9 April 1997).

Palmae (an unknown palm)-- Ormenaria rufifascia (Walker), palm flatid planthopper: A colony was found in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-s.n.; Dr. Frank W. Mead, DPI Emeritus Entomologist; 1 April 1997). The early date for this detection is indicative of a mild winter (Frank W. Mead).

Salix babylonica (weeping willow)-- Chrysomela scripta Fabricius, cottonwood leaf beetle: A severe infestation was found on 50 plants at a nursery in St. Augustine (St. John's County; E97-001453; Theresa L. Rust and Flewellyn W. Podris; 11 April 1997).

ORNAMENTALS, FOLIAGE PLANTS: Cactaceae (a cactus)-- Spilococcus parvicirculus (McKenzie), small-circulus mealybug: A slight infestation involved all of 25,000 plants at a nursery in Zellwood (Orange County; E97-001019; Leslie J. Wilber 21 March 1997). This California desert species is not a pest in California (Dr. Avas B. Hamon). NEW INTERCEPTION RECORD.

Cycas revoluta (sago palm)-- Parlatoria proteus (Curtis), proteus scale: A severe infestation was found on a plant at a residence in Homestead (Dade County; E97-000678; Randy C. Ploetz and Holly Glenn, University of Florida Tropical Research and Education Center, Homestead; 24 February 1997).

Cycadaceae (a cycad)-- Pharaxonotha floridana Casey, a languriid beetle: An infestation involved 590 of 2000 plants at a nursery in Christmas (Orange County; E97-001251; Barbara J. Wilder; 3 April 1997). This beetle is one of a very few in Florida associated with cycads; adults and larvae feed on pollen in the male cones (Dr. Michael C. Thomas).

Epipremnum pinnatum (pothos, hunter's robe, = E. aureum)-- Scirtothrips citri (Moulton), citrus thrips: A severe infestation involved 24,500 of 25,000 plants at a nursery in Mount Dora (Lake County; E97-000671; Christine M. Murphy; 28 February 1997).

Gymnocalycium sp. (a chin cactus)-- Aphis craccivora Koch, cowpea aphid: A moderate infestation on flowers of 500 of 25,000 plants was found at a nursery in Zellwood (Orange County; E97-001017; Leslie J. Wilber; 21 March 1997). This is a widespread polyphagous pest. NEW DPI HOST RECORD.

Hedera canariensis (Algerian ivy)-- Pseudaulacaspis cockerelli (Cooley), magnolia white scale: A severe infestation was found on two plants at a residence in Miami (Dade County; E96-4516c; Karen W. LeBoutillier; 26 November 1996).

Oncidium kozumit 'Delight Dogashiwia' (an orchid)-- Deroceras laeve (Müller), marsh slug: A severe infestation was found on more than 100 plants at a nursery in Tampa (Hillsborough County; E97-001526; Cindy S. Kamelhair; April 1997).

Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata' (variegated pittosporum)-- Penthaleus major (Duges), a mite: A moderate infestation involved 10,000 of 60,000 plants at a nursery in Kissimmee (Osceola County; E97-000468; Tyson R. Emery; 10 February 1997).

Schefflera arboricola (dwarf schefflera)-- Dialeurodes sp., a whitefly: A slight infestation involved 50 of 500 plants at a nursery in Eustis (Lake County; E97-001307; Christine M. Murphy and Stacey N. Siewnath; 1 April 1997). A moderate infestation was found on a plant at a residence in Pembroke (Broward County; E97-001294; Dennis C. Clinton; 2 April 1997). A severe infestation involved 100 of 150 plants at a nursery in Hallandale, Broward County; E97-001428; Maria I. Santos and Dennis C. Clinton; 10 April 1997). This undescribed whitefly has been found in Florida only on Schefflera (Dr. Avas B. Hamon). The find in Lake County is a NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Syzygium paniculatum (brush-cherry)-- Ceroplastes floridensis Comstock, Florida wax scale: A severe infestation was found at a nursery in Tampa (Hillsborough County; E97-001216; Rebecca H. Lemstrom; 1 April 1997).

ORNAMENTALS, FLOWERING PLANTS: Achillea millefolium (yarrow)-- Coloroadoa achilleae Hille Ris Lambers, an aphid: Several specimens were found on a wild plant at the B.H. Corpening North Carolina Forest Service Training Facility, Crossnore, NC (E97-004142-002; Dr. Susan E. Halbert; 22 October 1996). Achillea has become a popular ornamental plant, so it is likely that these inconspicuous aphids will be distributed widely in the near future. It is unknown if the aphids will be damaging to plants grown under artificial conditions (Susan E. Halbert). NEW WESTERN HEMISPHERE RECORD.

Anthurium sp. (an anthurium)-- Hereinothrips femoralis (Reuter), a thrips: A severe infestation was found on half of 200 plants at a nursery in Odessa (Hillsborough County; E97-000552; Cindy S. Kamelhair; 19 February 1997).

Bauhinia sp. (an orchid-tree)-- Protopulvinaria pyriformis (Cockerell), pyriform scale: A severe infestation was found at a residence in Orlando (Orange County; E97-000674; Barbara J. Wilder; 25 February 1997).

Bougainvillea sp. (bougainvillea)-- Asciodes gordialis Guenée., a pyralid moth: A moderate infestation involved half of 5 plants at a recreational business in Key Largo (Monroe County; E97-000814; Tony Albinana and Holly Glenn, University of Florida Tropical Research and Education Center, Homestead; January 1997).

Camellia japonica (camellia)-- Lepidosaphes camelliae Hoke, camellia scale: An infestation was found in Jasper (Hamilton County; E97-001487; M. 'Janie' Echols; 10 April 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

X Cattleytonia cultivar (a hybrid orchid)-- Toxoptera aurantii (Boyer de Fonscolombe), black citrus aphid: A moderate infestation was found at a nursery in Winter Garden (Orange County; E97-001474; Anthony N. Capitano; 14 April 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.

Centaurea cyanus (corn-flower, batchelor's-button)-- Brachycaudus helichrysi (Kaltenbach), plum leaf curl aphid: Several specimens were intercepted on a shipment of cut flowers from California (E97-000655; Tyson R. Emery; 25 February 1997). The aphid is a common pest in the western states, but is not reported in Florida. This aphid uses Prunus species as overwintering hosts, severely curling leaves in the spring. Summer hosts are members of Compositae, including chrysanthemum, on which it is a major pest (Susan E. Halbert).

Cymbidium 'Tom Thumb' (an orchid cultivar)-- Chrysomphalus aonidum (L.), Florida red scale: A severe infestation was found on 25 plants at a nursery in Holly Hill (Volusia County; E97-001444; Stacey N. Siewnath; 10 April 1997).

Delonix regia (royal ponciana)-- Sinoxylon conigerum Gerstaeker, a false bostrichid beetle: A heavy infestation was found at a residence in Miami (Dade County; E97-001020; Mary E. Mistis, University of Florida, Dade County Extension Service, Homestead, and Holly Glenn, University of Florida Tropical Research and Education Center, Homestead; 18 March 1997). In 1962, this Asian species was reported established in the Miami area, but has not been reported from Florida since then. It is frequently intercepted in wooden packing cases. This record suggests either that the beetle is still present in southern Florida or that it has been reintroduced (Dr. Michael C. Thomas).

Dendranthema x grandiflorum (mum, florist's chrysanthemum)-- Tarsonemus nr. confusus Ewing, a mite: A severe infestation caused leaf damage on 100 plants at a nursery in Parrish (Manatee County; E-07-000780; Mark L. Runnals; 7 March 1997).

Dionaea muscipula (Venus' flytrap)-- Pinnaspis aspidistrae (Signoret), fern scale: A moderate infestation was found on a plant at a residence in Miami (Dade County; E97-000994; Edward T. Putland; 16 March 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.

Hibiscus mutabilis (Confederate-rose)-- Aleurodicus dugesii Cockerell, giant whitefly and Trialeurodes abutilonea (Haldeman), bandedwinged whitefly: A moderate mixed infestation was found on a plant at a residence in Vero Beach (Indian River County; E97-000997; Kenneth L. Hibbard; 18 March 1997).

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (hibiscus, China-rose)-- Aleurodicus dugesii Cockerell, giant whitefly: A severe infestation was found in Casselberry (Seminole County; E97-001744; Brenda S. Kosiba and Anthony N. Capitano; 22 April 1997). The infestation was reported by a homeowner who saw an article on the new pest. NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

-- Parasaissetia nigra (Nietner), nigra scale: A severe infestation was found on four plants at a nursery in Homestead (Dade County; E97-001206; Eduardo M. Varona; 31 March 1997).

Masdevallia infracta (an orchid)-- Myzus persicae (Sulzer), green peach aphid: A slight infestation was found on flowers at a nursery in Winter Garden (Orange County; E97-001473; Anthony N. Capitano; 14 April 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.

Pyrostegia venusta (flame vine)-- Aleurodicus dugesii Cockerell, giant whitefly: A slight infestation was found on a plant in Fort Pierce (St. Lucie County; E97-000774; L. Wayne Clifton and Mark L. Runnals; 6 March 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.

Rhododendron sp. (an azalea)-- Brevipalpus obovatus Donnadieu, privet mite: An infestaion caused distorted foliage at a nursery in Plant City (Hillsborough County; E97-000503; Mike Jenkins, lawn service proprietor; 11 February 1997). Two predator mite species, Typhalodromalus peregrinus (Muma) and Typhalodromias dentilis (DeLeon), were also found in the sample (Dr. W. Cal Welbourn).

Tripogandra multiflora (Tahitian bridal-veil)-- Echinothrips americanus Morgan, a thrips: A moderate to severe infestation involved half of 50 plants in at a nursery in Sanford (Seminole County; E97-000680; Anne F. Weathers; 25 February 1997).

Vriesia sp. (a bromeliad)-- Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominalis (Sasaki), rice root aphid: An infestation was found on bromeliad flowers at a nursery (Seminole County; E97-001247; Anne F. Weathers; 28 March 1997). This aphid normally is found on roots of various plants and is a pest in hydroponic systems. For the past several years, infestations also have been found on bromeliad flowers in Florida (Dr. Susan E. Halbert).

FOREST AND SHADE TREES: Celtis laevigata (hackberry, a native species)-- Tetragonocephala flava Crawford, a nest-making psyllid: An infestation was found at a nursery in Oak Hill (Volusia County; E97-001214; Dr. Avas B. Hamon, Dr. Ru Nguyen, Kenneth L. Hibbard, and L.J. Chambliss; 26 February 1997). The psyllid is a Mexican species, also established in Texas, Arizona and Louisiana. Damaging outbreaks can occur (Dr. Douglass R. Miller, United States National Museum). NEW STATE RECORD.

Pinus sp. (a pine)-- Ips grandicollis Erichson, a bark beetle: A severe infestation was found in a rural area near Myakka (Manatee County; E97-000836; Warren J. 'Jim' Dowling; 14 February 1997).

Prunus serotina (wild black cherry)-- Aphis minima Tissot, minute wild cherry aphid: A severe infestation was found at the Natural Area, University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-001719; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 25 April 1997). This aphid was described from Florida, but has not been collected often despite the severe leaf curling damage to the host. There are no DPI records for this species since 1938 (Dr. Susan E. Halbert).

FOOD OR CROP PLANTS: Amaranthus caudatus (calalú, love-lies-bleeding)-- Conotrachelus cervinus Hustache, a weevil, heavily infested 100,000 plants (which are eaten as a leaf vegetable) in a screenhouse in Homestead (Dade County; E97-000734-001; Adrian Hunsberger, University of Florida Tropical Research and Education Center, Homestead; 28 February 1997). This South American weevil, known to feed on Amaranthus, is not previously known from the United States (Dr. C.W. O'Brien, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee). NEW CONTINENTAL U.S. RECORD.

Dimocarpus longan (longan)-- Thysanofiorinia nephelii (Maskell), longan scale: A moderate infestation was found in a 10-acre commercial grove in Naples (Collier County; E97-001140; Dr. Jonathan H. Crane, University of Florida Tropical Research and Education Center, Homestead; 6 March 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Lactuca sativa (lettuce)-- Nasonovia ribisnigri (Mosley), currant lettuce aphid: An infestation was intercepted on a produce shipment from California in Winter Park (Orange County; E97-001015; Tyson R. Emery; 22 March 1997). This species is not reported in Florida and can be a pest in lettuce on the west coast (Dr. Susan E. Halbert).

Phaseolus coccineus (scarlet runner bean)-- Polyphagotarsonemus latus Banks, broad mite: A moderate infestation was found in a University of Florida greenhouse in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-000607; Feiko Ferwerda, University of Florida, Gainesville; 19 February 1997). This mite species is a serious plant pest (Dr. W. Cal Welbourn).

Pithecellobium dulce (huamuchil, Manila tamarind)-- Stator limbatus Horn, a bruchid beetle: A slight to moderate infestation involved 20 pounds of fruit at a flea market in Palmetto (Manatee County; E97-000698; 2 February 1997; Mark L. Runnals). The plant grows in southern Mexico and the beetle is an exotic (Dr. Michael C. Thomas). NEW DPI STATE RECORD.

Solanum melongena (eggplant)-- Epitrix fasciata Blatchley, a chrysomelid beetle: A severe infestation of these jumping beetles was found in a community garden in Naranja (Dade County; E97-001280; Edward T. Putland; 3 April 1997).

CITRUS: Citrus aurantium (sour orange)-- Aleurothrixus floccuosus (Mask.), woolly whitefly and Paraleyrodes minei Iaccarino, a whitefly: A severe mixed infestation was found at a residence in Titusville (Brevard County; E97-001442; Kenneth L. Hibbard; 10 April 1997).

Citrus limon (lemon)-- Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), brown citrus aphid: A slight infestation was found in a vacant lot in Bradenton (Manatee County; E97-001437; Floyd E. Crim, United States Department of Agriculture/Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service/Plant Protection and Quarantine, Palmetto; 10 April 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Citrus x nobilis 'Temple' (tangor cultivar)-- Toxoptera citricida: A slight infestation was found at a residence in Lake Alfred (Polk County; E97-001366; Martha A. 'Ginger' Simpson, USDA/APHIS/PPQ, Winter Haven, Dr. Avas B. Hamon and Dr. Susan E. Halbert; 7 April 1997). The colonies were on immature fruit and on the same tree as an earlier sample consisting of a single parasitized specimen that probably was also a brown citrus aphid (20 March 1997; Martha A. 'Ginger' Simpson). This find indicates that brown citrus aphid has colonized the Central Florida Ridge. Rate of movement of the new pest through the Florida citrus production areas coincides with published reports of invasion rates for introduced aphids. Thus, the new record can be accounted for by natural spread (Dr. Susan E. Halbert). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Citrus reticulata (a tangerine)-- Toxoptera citricida: A slight infestation was found at a residence in Zolfo Springs (Hardee County; E97-000894; Floyd E. Crim, USDA/APHIS/PPQ, Palmetto; 12 March 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Citrus x tangelo 'Orlando' (tangelo cultivar)-- Toxoptera citricida: A slight infestation was found on flowers at a scion grove near Immokalee (Collier County; E97-000965; Dr. Susan E. Halbert; 18 March 1997).

Citrus spp. (several citrus species)-- Toxoptera citricida: A moderate infestation involved 200 of 300 plants in a scion grove at Hobe Sound (Martin County; E97-001083; William R. Schirmer; 21 March 1997). The presence of brown citrus aphids in scion groves greatly increases the possibility for spread of severe strains of citrus tristeza virus in citrus propagation material. It is of utmost importance to protect germplasm resources from brown citrus aphids (Dr. Susan E. Halbert).

Citrus sinensis (sweet orange)-- Orchamoplatus mammaeferus (Quaintance & Baker), a whitefly: An infestation was found on leaves of a plant at a hotel in Freeport, Bahamas (E97-001213; Dr. Harold W. Browning, University of Florida Citrus Research and Education Center, Lake Alfred; 19 September 1992). The economic consequences of this introduction are unknown (Dr. Avas B. Hamon). NEW RECORD FOR THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE.

Poncirus trifoliata hybrid 'Barrett hybrid 2923' (trifoliate-orange hybrid)-- Toxoptera citricida: A moderate infestation was found at a research facility in downtown Orlando (Orange County; E97-001778; Larry Clinton, USDA/Agricultural Research Service; 29 April 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

WEEDS AND GRASSES: Miscanthus sinensis 'Yakushima' (eulalia cultivar)-- Miscanthicoccus miscanthi (Takahashi), a mealybug: An infestation was found at an amusement park in Lake Buena Vista (Orange County; E97-000027; Barbara J. Wilder; 31 December 1996). The mealybug, apparently host specific to Miscanthus, was previously known from California, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia (Dr. Avas B. Hamon). NEW STATE RECORD.

Schinus terebinthifolius (Brazilian-pepper, a state Noxious Weed)-- Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis (Green), trilobe scale and Saissetia coffeae (Walker), hemispherical scale: A slight mixed infestation was found in Homestead (Dade County; E97-001561; Edward T. Putland; 18 April 1997).

Sonchus oleraceus (sowthistle)-- Hyperomyzus carduellinus (Theobald), lactuceae aphid: Infestations were found in Homestead (Dade County; E97-001281; Edward T. Putland; 3 April 1997); Fort Pierce (St. Lucie County; E97-001352; Kenneth L. Hibbard; 4 April 1997); Apopka (Orange County; E001401; Leslie J. Wilber; 7 April 1997) and Winter Haven (Polk County; E97-001353; Dr. Susan E. Halbert and Martha A. 'Ginger' Simpson, USDA/APHIS/PPQ, Winter Haven; 7 April 1997). This Asian aphid is specific to Sonchus and related plants and is not likely to be a pest. The colony in Winter Haven was a mixed infestation with Hyperomyzus lactucae (L.), which has been in North America for a long time (Dr. Susan E. Halbert). See page 12 for further information on H. carduellinus. The Dade County find is a NEW DPI HOST RECORD. The finds in Orange and Polk counties are NEW DPI COUNTY RECORDS.

NATIVE AND NATURALIZED PLANTS: Arundinaria gigantea (canebrake bamboo)-- Takecallis arundicolens (Clarke), an Asian bamboo aphid: A slight infestation was found at Kanapaha Botanical Garden in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-001066; Dr. Susan E. Halbert, Dr. Nancy C. Coile and Norma A. McGinn; 25 March 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Gossypium hirsutum (wild cotton, upland cotton, an endangered species)-- Aleurodicus dugesii Cockerell, giant whitefly: A slight infestation was found at a residence in Vero Beach (Indian River County; E97-000884; Kenneth L. Hibbard; 14 March 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.

Ilex vomitoria (yaupon holly)-- Asterolecanium puteanum Russell, holly pit scale: A severe infestation on two of 15 plants was found at a residence in Orange City (Volusia County: E97-000845; Edward T. Putland; 9 March 1997).

Licania michauxii (gopher apple)-- Toxoptera aurantii (Boyer de Fonscolombe), black citrus aphid: A slight infestation was found in a rural area near Fort Pierce (St. Lucie County; E97-001638; Kenneth L. Hibbard; 21 April 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.

Lupinus diffusus (sky-blue lupine)-- Cyarda melichari van Duzee, a flatid planthopper: A slight infestation was found in Homosassa (Citrus County; E97-000789; Warren J. 'Jim' Dowling; 5 March 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Oncidium luridum (mule-ear orchid, a Florida endangered plant species, =O. undulatum)-- Melanagromyza miamensis Spencer, a fly: Several specimens were collected in Everglades National Park, near Homestead (Dade County; E97-000732; Ron Clouse, park employee; 28 February 1997). These are the first specimens in the Florida State Collection of Arthropods (Dr. Gary J. Steck).

Turnera ulmifolia (yellow elder, native of South America)-- Philephedra tuberculosa Nakahara & Gill, a scale insect: A severe infestation involved half of 20 plants at a campground in Marathon (Monroe County; E97-000087; Anne R. Gorden-Vega; 5 January 1997).

Uniola paniculata (sea oats, protected by Florida law)-- Trionymus sp., near winnemucae McKenzie, a mealybug: A moderate infestation was found at a beach in Indian Harbour Beach (Brevard County; E97-000057; David H. Faneuf; 2 January 1997).

Zamia pumila (coontie, a commercially exploited taxon)-- Saissetia coffeae (Walker), hemispherical scale: A severe infestation was found on 25 plants at a nursery in Orlando (Orange County; E97-000656; Tyson R. Emery; 21 February 1997).

FEDERAL/STATE PLANT PROTECTION AND QUARANTINE PROGRAMS: Apium graveolens var. dulce (celery)-- Helix aspersa Müller, brown garden snail: A slight infestation was found on organic produce from California in Winter Haven (Polk County; E97-001052; James E. 'Pete' Lindsay and W. Jack Shirley; 24 March 1997).

Calluna vulgaris 'Stirling Range' (heather cultivar)-- Helix aspersa: A severe infestation was intercepted in a shipment from California at a nursery in Tampa (Hillsborough County; E97-001215; Rebecca H. Lemstrom; 2 April 1997).

Leptospermum scoparium (New Zealand tea-tree)-- Helix aspersa: A slight infestation was intercepted in a shipment from California at a florist in Tampa (Hillsborough County; E97-001729; Rebecca H. Lemstrom; 28 April 1997).

Pyracantha sp. (a firethorn)-- Helix aspersa: A slight infestation was intercepted in a shipment from California at a nursery in Rockledge (Brevard County; E97-001514; Karen L. Garrett-Kraus; 17 April 1997).

INSECTS OF MEDICAL AND VETERINARY IMPORTANCE: Arilus cristatus (L.), a wheelbug: Large aggregations of wheelbugs covered porches and yards in Orange Springs (Marion County; E97-001312; Steven Smith, homeowner; 7 April 1997). The bugs were biting people and domestic animals.

Ixodes scapularis Say, a tick: Found biting a person in Oak Hill (Volusia County; E97-000733; Stephen B. Beidler; 1 March 19971). Specimens were found on people in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-000573; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 20 February 1997) and (Alachua County; E97-000876; Robert P. Esser; 13 March 1997). The tick is a potential vector of Lyme disease and human erlichiosis (Dr. W. Cal Welbourn).

Phidippus otiosus (Hentz), a jumping spider: A man was bitten by this spider while in a boat on a river near Lake Butler (Union County; E97-000713; Glenn Howard, Florida resident; 5 March 1997).

INSECT DETECTION: Cuterebra fontinella (Clark), a rodent bot fly: A specimen was found at a residence in Bradenton (Manatee County; E97-001130; Mark L. Runnals; 10 March 1997). Even though rodents are commonly parasitized in nature, adult flies are rarely collected (Dr. Gary J. Steck).

Euleia fratria (Loew), a tephritid fly: A single specimen was caught in a McPhail trap in St. Petersburg (Pinellas County; E97-001811; C. 'Keith' Hickman; 24 April 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

-- A single specimen was caught in a fruit fly detection trap in Grand Island (Lake County; E97-001823; Harry L. Morrison; 17 April 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Heilipus clathratus Champion, a weevil: A single specimen was found in an office at the University of Florida in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-003311; Dan Wenny, University of Florida; 5 August 1996). This beetle, native of Panama, has not been reported in Florida (Dr. Charles W. O'Brien, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee). NEW USA RECORD.

Hyperomyzus carduellinus (Theobald), lactuceae aphid: Single specimens were collected in suction traps in Kendall (Dade County; E97-001009; Gwen H. Myres and Dr. Susan E. Halbert; 14-21 March 1997); Fort Pierce (St. Lucie County; E97-001011; Robert C. Bullock and Dr. Susan E. Halbert; 14-21 March 1997); and Quincy (Gadsden County; E97-001264; Dr. Richard K. Sprenkel and Dr. Susan E. Halbert; 28 March - 4 April 1997). The Kendall and Fort Pierce collections represent a NEW NORTH AMERICAN RECORD for this Asian species (Dr. Susan E. Halbert). The aphid has also been collected in Argentina (Prof. G. Remaudière, French Museum of Natural History). See page 10, Sonchus oleraceus, for further records.

Leptoglossus ashmeadi Heidemann, a leaffooted bug: An adult was found at a nursery in Merritt Island (Brevard County; E97-001766; Karen L. Garrett-Kraus; 29 April 1997). This species feeds on mistletoe. NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Metaphidippus vitis (Cockerell) group (immatures), a jumping spider: A specimen was found on an avocado plant in a rural area near Homestead (Dade County; E97-000588; Edward T. Putland; 19 February 1997). This introduced jumping spider was found for the first time in Florida last year (Dr. G.B. Edwards).

Ophiderma flavicephala Goding, a treehopper: A single specimen was collected in a Jackson trap in Lakeland (Polk County; E97-001404; Martha A. 'Ginger' Simpson; 9 April 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.

Botany Section

Entomology Section

Nematology Section

Plant Pathology Section

NEMATOLOGY SECTION
Compiled by Paul S. Lehman, Ph.D.

A total of 2,328 samples were processed in March and April. Details are shown below:

Certification and Regulatory Samples:

Multistate Certification for National and International Export 868
California Certification 919
Premovement 40
Site or Pit Approval 55

Other Samples:

Identification (Invertebrate) 4
Florida Interceptions 29
Plant Problem 81
Intrastate Survey, Random 332

Based on DPI records all of the following nematodes are reported for the first time from Florida on these native plant species:

Centrosema virginianum (spurred butterfy pea)-- Longidorus menthasolanus Konicek & Jensen, 1961, a needle nematode: found associated with the roots of this plant at Gainesville (Alachua County; N96-00795; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 6 June 1996). NEW STATE RECORD.

Geranium carolinianum (Carolina cranesbill)-- Trichodorus bierensis Almedia, De Waele & Strhan, 1989, stubby root nematode: found associated with roots of this plant at Gainesville (Alachua County; N96-00306; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 8 March 1996). NEW STATE RECORD.

Magnolia grandiflora (southern magnolia, or bullbay)-- Paratylenchus sheri (Raski, 1973) Siddiqi, 1986, pin nematode: found associated with the roots of this tree at St. Petersburg (Pinellas County; N96-00292; Floyd J. McHenry; 4 March 1996). NEW STATE RECORD.

Pinus palustris (longleaf pine)-- Criconema calvum (Raski & Golden, 1966) Raski & Luc 1984, a spine nematode: found associated with the roots of this conifer at Gainesville (Alachua County; N96-00150; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 8 February 1996). NEW STATE RECORD.

Tephrosia spicata (spiked hoarypea)-- Hemicycliophora vidua Raski, 1958, a sheath nematode: found associated with the root of this plant at Gainesville (Alachua County; N96-00762 Dr. Robert P. Esser; 11 June 1996). NEW STATE RECORD.

COLLECTORS SUBMITTING FIVE OR MORE SAMPLES THAT WERE PROCESSED FOR NEMATOLOGICAL ANALYSIS DURING MARCH AND APRIL 1997:

Brown, Gregory A. 22
Dees, Carrie S. 74
Echols, M. 'Janie' 12
Esser, Robert P. 9
LeBoutillier, Karen W. 91
Peacock, Maria E. 9
Robinson, William L. "Robbie" 225
Salisbury, Thomas L. 187
Smith, W. Wayne 415
Wigelsworth, Jimmie R. 7

PLANT PATHOLOGY
Compiled by John W. Miller, Ph. D.

For this period, the Plant Pathology Section received and processed 1,919 specimens. These included 720 pathology, 31 miscellaneous, 8 soil, and 1,160 suspect canker samples. Some of the samples are shown below.

ORNAMENTALS, WOODY PLANTS AND PALMS: Cycas revoluta (king sago)-- Cylindrocladium parasiticum Crous, Wingfield, & Alfenas, root, crown rot: Collected at a nursery in Apopka (Orange County; P97-1008; William M. Purvis; 4 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Escallonia x exoniensis (hybrid escallonia)-- Pseudomonas syringae Van Hall pv. syringae Van Hall, bacterial leaf spot: Collected at a nursery in Thonotosassa (Hillsborough County; P97-0767; Howard L. Wallace; 11 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Juniperus virginiana (eastern red cedar, a native species)-- Isthmospora sp. F. L. Stevens, fungal hyperparasite: Collected at a nursery in Odessa (Hillsborough County; P97-0997; Cindy S. Kamelhair; 3 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

ORNAMENTALS FOLIAGE PLANTS: Crassula sp. (a crassula)-- Cylindrocladium parasiticum Crous, Wingfield, & Alfenos, crown, root rot: Collected at a nursery in Apopka (Orange County; P97-0912; Anthony N. Capitano; 24 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Monarda sp. (a bee-balm)-- Nigrospora oryzae (Berk. & Br.) Petch, secondary pathogen: Collected at a nursery in Orlando (Orange County; P97-0533; Tyson R. Emery; 19 February 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Nepenthes sp. (an Asian pitcher plant)-- Cylindrocladium parasiticum Crous, Wingfield, & Alfenas, crown rot: Collected at a nursery in Eustis (Lake County; P97-0570; Christine M. Murphy; 19 February 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Opuntia sp. (a cactus)-- Fusarium solani (Mart.) Sacc., root rot: Collected at a nursery in Sorrento (Lake County; P97-0811; Christine M. Murphy; 14 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Schefflera arboricola (dwarf schefflera)-- Nectria sp., fungal: Collected at a nursery in Plymouth (Orange County; P97-1027; Leslie J. Wilber; 31 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

ORNAMENTALS, FLOWERING PLANTS: Aster novi-belgii 'Persian Rose' (dwarf michaelmas daisy cultivar)-- Corynespora sp., leaf spot: Collected at a nursery in New Port Richey (Pasco County; P97-1126; Cindy S. Kamelhair; 3 April 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Brugmansia sp. (an angel trumpet)-- Alternaria crassa (Sacc.) Rands, leaf spot: Collected at a nursery in Eustis (Lake County; P97-0956; Christine M. Murphy; 27 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Petunia sp. (a petunia)-- Thielaviopsis basicola (Berk. & Br.) Ferraris, root, crown rot: Collected at a nursery in St. Augustine (St. Johns County; P97-1128 Theresa S. Rust; 9 April 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Streptocarpus sp. (a Cape-primrose)-- Impatiens necrotic spot tospovirus, virus: Collected at a nursery in Gainesville (Alachua County; P97-0626; Maria E. Peacock; 25 February 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

FOREST AND SHADE TREES: Pinus palustris (longleaf pine, a native species)-- Lecanosticta acicola, brown needle spot: Collected on a rural road survey at junction of county road 8 and US hwy 19, Lecanto (Citrus County; P97-0661; Warren J. Dowling; 27 February 1997).

Prunus caroliniana (Carolina cherry-laurel, a native species)-- Auerswaldiella puccinioides (Speg.) Theiss. & Syd., leaf spot: Collected at the Natural Area, University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences in Gainesville (Alachua County; P97-0714; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 07 March 1997).

FOOD OR CROP PLANTS: Coriandrum sativum (Chinese parsley)-- Alternaria petroselini (Neergaard) Simmons, leaf spot: Collected at a dooryard in Apopka (Orange County; P97-0542; Anthony N. Capitano; 16 February 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Lycopersicon esculentum (tomato)-- Phytophthora infestans, late blight: Collected at a nursery in Ft. McCoy (Marion County; P97-0960; Gene Gruenbeck; 02 April 1997).

Vaccinium corymbosum (blueberry, a cultivated native species)-- Phyllosticta vaccinii, fruit spot: Collected at a nursery in Waldo (Alachua County; P97-1176; Theresa S. Rust; 15 April 1997).

WEEDS AND GRASSES: Miscanthus sp. (eulalia, an Asian grass)-- Phyllachora sp., Phlyctema sp, & Drechslera gigantea (Heald & Wolf) Ito, leaf spot: Collected at a tourist attraction, Lake Buena Vista (Orange County; P97-0757; Barbara J. Wilder, Dr. Susan E. Halbert, and Dr. Avas B. Hamon; 12 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

NATIVE OR NATURALIZED: Bignonia capreolata (cross-vine)-- Atractilina parasitica (Wint.) Deighton & Pirozynski, fungal hyperparasite: Collected on a rural road survey in Homosassa Springs (Citrus County; P97-0725; Warren J. Dowling; 05 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Centella asiatica (coinwort, an exotic)-- Septoria sp., leaf spot: Collected at a dooryard in Tampa (Hillsborough County; P97-0923; Rebecca H. Lemstrom; 25 March 1997).

Lactuca serriola (prickly lettuce, =L. scariola)-- Bremia lactucae, downy mildew: Collected at the Natural Area, University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences in Gainesville (Alachua County; P97-0666; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 02 March 1997).

Lupinus diffusus (sky-blue lupine)-- Mycovellosiella sp., leaf spot: Collected at a clay pit in a sand pine woodland along FL hwy 545, north of Abbot (Orange County; P97-0756; Barbara J. Wilder; 11 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Rhapidophyllum hystrix (needle palm, a commercially exploited species)-- Fusarium oxysporum Schlectend.:Fr., root rot: Collected at a nursery in Tallahassee (Leon County; P97-0792; Jimmie R. Wigelworth; 14 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

OTHER DETECTIONS OF SPECIAL INTEREST: X Cupressocyparis leylandii (Leyland cypress)-- Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goidenich, root disease: Collected at a dooryard in Gainesville (Alachua County; P97-0869; William Hager, homeowner; 25 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Quercus sp. (an oak)-- Fusarium chlamydosporum Wollenweb. & Reinking, secondary pathogen: Collected at a nursery in Bell (Gilchrist County; P97-0462; M. 'Janie' Echols and Joseph S. Beckwith; 13 February 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Syagrus romanzoffiana (queen palm)-- Chlamydomyces palmarum (Cooke) Mason, saprophyte: Collected at a nursery in Parrish (Manatee County; P97-0943; Mark L. Runnals; 28 March 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.

Adam H. Putnam, Commissioner - Richard D. Gaskalla, Director