TRI-OLOGY, Vol. 36, No. 5
Nancy C. Coile, Ph. D., Managing Editor
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 1997
Wayne N. Dixon, Ph. D., Editor
| Botany Section | Entomology Section | Nematology Section | Plant Pathology Section |
BOTANY SECTION
Compiled by Carlos R. Artaud
For this period, 113 specimens were submitted to Botany for identification, and 668 were received from other Sections for identification and/or name verification (for a total of 781). Some of the samples are described below:
Albizia saman F. Muell., Leguminosae, rain tree, saman: Tree, to 30-45 m tall; crown widespread to 50 m or more. Branchlets pubescent. Leaves bipinnate to 40 cm long, with glands between rachillae; rachillae in 3-6 pairs; leaflets to 4 cm long, and 2 cm broad, in 4-8 pairs, elliptic, pubescent. Distinctive leaf movements due to massive fluxes of ions through the pulvinar motor-cell membranes. Flowers in umbel-like heads, clustered in leaf axils; one central flower surrounded by several others make a globose head 5-7 cm in diameter; individual flowers have yellowish corollas about 1.2 cm long, but appear 3 times that length because of about 20 protruding stamens, which are pink to crimson in their apical half. The central flower eventually develops into a green to purplish or blackish pod 20 cm long, and 2 cm wide, oblong, straight or curved, woody, with ribbed margins, which hangs on the tree for months. A fast growing, ornamental shade tree, suitable for parks or large gardens in the tropics. Shallow grooved bark of the tree is used to hold ornamental epiphytes. The common name "rain tree" refers to falling of honey-dew sucked from the tree by cicadas. Formerly, fruit dispersal was probably by Pleistocene mammals no longer extant. In Costa Rica, this plant has an association with Azteca ants. Azteca ants are defender ants and are especially well known for their association with bull-thorn acacia, Acacia cornigera (L.) Willd. (Dr. Lionel A. Stange). Native to tropical America. Synonym: Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merrill. (Broward County; B97-388; Scott Shea, Dennis C. Clinton; 23 September 1997). (Bailey 1976; Barrett 1956; Huxley 1992; Mabberley 1997).
Banksia ashbei Bak. f., Proteaceae, Ashby's banksia: Spreading, somewhat open tall shrub to small tree to 8 m tall, and 3 m wide. Leaves 10-30 cm long, linear, margins undulate and deeply serrated with sharp tips. Inflorescence consists of dense terminal spikes 15-20 cm long, sessile, subtended by an involucre of bracts; individual flowers paired in axil of bracts, perianth tube bright orange, short, slender, segments concave and united at base; anthers 4, sessile; nectary scales 4; ovary small, sessile, ovules 2, styles slender, erect, protruding from a slit in perianth tube, often tipped with copious pollen when freshly open. Fruit a compressed capsule, with hardened bracts, numerous capsules are united by the twig-like parts to form a cone-like structure; seeds 2, compressed, winged. Attractive ornamental valued for its foliage, flowers and for the cone-like fruits (all parts having potential for drying) and cultivated in Mediterranean climates for cut flowers. Abundant nectar attracts birds and is also eaten by aborigines. Native of western Australia. (Union County; B97-371; Carrie Dukes-Smith, homeowner; 29 July 1997). (Everett 1982; Huxley 1992; Mabberley 1997).
Dioscorea alata L., Dioscoreaceae, white yam, water yam, winged yam, or ñame: Tuberous roots to 2.5 m long, and may weigh up to 150 pounds. Stems 2-4 winged or 2-4-angled, twining clockwise, often with small axillary tubers. Leaves opposite, ovate to oblong, base deeply cordate, glabrous, 7-9 veined. Male flowers in branched spikes; female flowers in simple spikes. Fruit coriaceous, broader than long; seeds encircled by a wing. Widely cultivated in tropics with many cultivars; not cold hardy. Native from India to Malay Peninsula, but no longer known from the wild. Tubers are relished as food by Latin Americans. The boiled tubers become grayish-white and have a unique starchy flavor. Used in stews and eaten with mojito (oil, garlic, and lime dressing). Exotic Pest Plant Council lists this species as a category I invasive plant. (Volusia County: B97-457; Anne F. Weathers; 21 October 1997). (Bailey 1976; Everett 1982; Huxley 1992).
Ficus natalensis Hochst. ssp. leprieurii (Miq.) C. Berg., Moraceae, Natal fig: Epiphytic or terrestrial shrub or tree, if epiphytic sometimes becoming a strangler; eventually in favorable conditions becoming a large tree to 30 m tall. Twigs to 5 mm thick, glabrous or sparsely puberulous. Leaves most often distichous and frequently nearly opposite, entire, glabrous, to 10 cm long and 5 cm broad, symmetric; venation pinnate, with 1 pair of basal veins and 5-9 lateral veins per side; petiole to 3 cm long. Figs solitary or in pairs in axils or just below the leaves, sometimes further back, pedunculate (sometimes obscurely so), globose, glabrous to puberulent. Most Natal figs in cultivation are ssp. leprieurii, but ssp. natalensis is also grown (and sometimes offered as F. thoningii). Subspecies natalensis has leaves elliptic to obovate to obovate-deltoid, the widest point usually above the middle, the midrib not usually reaching the apex; and figs to 1.5 cm in diameter. Subspecies leprieurii differs by its revolute leaf margins, more or less broadly obovate-deltoid to obovate leaves, with midrib disappearing well before the apex, apex often emarginate, and relatively small figs. The dichotomizing of the midrib in the upper part of leaves is reminiscent of F. deltoidea Jack., the mistletoe-fig. Native to northwest Zambia and Angola through Zaire to central and west Africa as far as Senegal. Synonym: F. triangularis Warb. (Manatee County: B97-425; Larry Herbaugh, homeowner; 8 October 1997). (Huxley 1992).
Galphimia glauca Cav., Malpighiaceae, gold shower, thryallis: Glaucous shrub to 3 m tall, stems with many reddish hairs. Leaves opposite, simple, oblong, ovate, or elliptic to 5 cm long, obtuse or rounded at base, short-petioled. Inflorescence a dense, many flowered, terminal raceme; individual flower stalks with 2 small bracts at or below the middle; flowers yellow, 3 mm across; sepals 5, without glands; petals 5, clawed; stamens 10, filaments alternately long and short; styles 3. Fruit a capsule, separating into 3 sections. Widely cultivated in warm regions as hedges, or as individual accents plants. Native of Mexico and Guatemala. (Alachua County; B97-445; Sarah E. Walker; 19 October 1997). (Bailey 1976).
Serissa japonica (Thunb.) Thunb., Rubiaceae, serissa: Evergreen shrub, stems densely branched, to 60 cm long; branches initially pubescent. Leaves to 2 cm long and 0.8 cm broad, ovate, acute, subcoriaceous, dark green, fetid when crushed; stipules persistent. Flower terminal or axillary, solitary or clustered; calyx 4-6-lobed; corolla pink in bud, opens pure white, funnel-shaped, to 1 cm long, lobes 4-6, obscurely trilobate; stamens inserted in lower part of corolla; style short-exerted, bifid. Fruit a berry, 2-seeds, succulent. Grown for its flowers which are abundant from spring to autumn amongst the small lustrous evergreen leaves. Responds to clipping into formal shapes, after flowering or in winter. Cultivars may have double flowers or variegated foliage. Often used as a bonsai subject. Native of southeast Asia. (Alachua County; B97-372; Maria E. Peacock; 5 September 1997). (Everett 1982; Huxley 1992).
GLOSSARY: distichous; in two vertical ranks, producing leaves or flowers in two opposite rows. rachilla (pl. rachillae) a secondary rachis; also, the axis of a grass spikelet is called a rachilla. A rachis is the main axis of a structure; the rachillae are the secondary branches.
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.
- Barrett, M. F. 1956. Common exotic trees of South Florida. University of Florida Press, Gainesville. 414 p.
- Everett, T.H. 1982. The New York Botanical Garden illustrated encyclopedia of horticulture. Garland Publishing, Inc., New York.
- Huxley, A. J. (ed.) 1992. New Royal Horticultural Society dictionary of gardening. 4 vols. Macmillan Press, London. 3,240 p.
- Mabberley, D.J. 1997. The plant-book, 2nd edition. Cambridge University Press, London. 858 p.
ENTOMOLOGY SECTION
Compiled by Susan E. Halbert, Ph.D.
For the month of September, there were 653 samples consisting of 7375+ specimens. In October, there were 557 samples consisting of 7,687+ specimens. Some of the samples processed are listed below:
ORNAMENTALS, WOODY PLANTS AND PALMS: Ficus benjamina (weeping fig)-- Lymire edwardsii (Grote), Edward's wasp moth: A moderate infestation involved half of 2000 plants at a nursery in Merritt Island (Brevard County; E97-3724; Karen L. Garrett-Kraus; 19 September 1997. Another infestation was found at the DPI office in Homestead (Dade County; E97-3854; Ping Qiao and W. Wayne Smith; 6 October 1997).
Ilex vomitoria 'Nana' (cultivar of yaupon holly, a native species )-- Quadraspidiotus juglansregiae (Comstock), walnut scale: A severe infestation was found on 20 of 50 plants at a nursery in Odessa (Hillsborough County; E97-0553; Cindy S. Kamelhair; 18 February 1997). Infestation caused die-back of stems.
Ravenea rivularis (majesty palm)-- Metamasius hemipterus (Linnaeus), West Indian cane weevil: A severe infestation involved all of 3000 plants at a nursery in Delray Beach (Palm Beach County; E97-3605; Ellen J. Tannehill; 10 September 1997).
ORNAMENTALS, FOLIAGE PLANTS: Aglaomorpha meyeniana (bear's paw fern)-- Heliothrips haemorrhoidalis (Bouche), a thrips: A severe infestation was found on five plants at a nursery in Rockledge (Brevard County; E97-3671; Karen L. Garrett-Kraus; 16 September 1997).
Aphelandra squarrosa (zebra plant)-- Pinnaspis strachani (Cooley), lesser snow scale and Saissetia coffeae (Walker), hemispherical scale: A severe infestation was found on all of 3000 plants at a nursery in Apopka (Orange County; E97-3493-001; William B. Purvis; 4 September 1997).
Aucuba japonica 'Mr. Gold Strike' (aucuba cultivar)-- Scolothrips sexmaculatus (Pergande), sixspotted thrips: A severe infestation was found in Lake Buena Vista (Orange County; E97-3552; Barbara J. Wilder; 4 September 1997).
Cycas circinalis (queen sago)-- Aulacaspis yasumatsui Takagi, aulacaspis cycad scale: A severe infestation was found on a plant at a residence in Homestead (Dade County; E97-3915; Edward T. Putland; 8 October 1997).
Cycas revoluta (king sago)-- Pseudococcus longispinus (Targ.-Tozz.), longtailed mealybug: A severe infestation was found on three plants at a nursery in Ruskin (Hillsborough County; E97-3600; M. 'Janie' Echols and Edward T. Putland; 11 September 1997).
-- Aulacaspis yasumatsui Takagi, aulacaspis cycad scale: A severe infestation was found on a single plant at a residence in Hollywood (Broward County; E97-3916; William A. 'Bill' Thiel; 7 October 1997).
Dracaena deremensis 'Lemon and Lime' (dracaena cultivar)-- Parlatoria proteus (Curtis), proteus scale: A severe infestation was found on one of three plants at a nursery in Hollywood (Broward County; E97-3517; Maria S. Quintanilla; 4 September 1997).
Kalanchoe tomentosa (panda plant)-- Asterolecanium sp., a pit scale: A moderate infestation involved 300 of 1000 plants at a nursery in Merritt Island (Brevard County; E97-3754; Karen L. Garrett-Kraus; 26 September 1997).
Plectranthus scutellarioides (coleus)-- Aleurodicus dugesii Cockerell, giant whitefly: An infestation was found at a residence in Ft. Pierce (St. Lucie County; E97-2756; Denise V. Marshall; 26 June 1997).
Tradescantia fluminensis (white-flowered wandering Jew, Exotic Pest Plant Council lists as category II)-- Aphis gossypii Glover, cotton/melon aphid: A moderate infestation was found at a nursery in Orlando, (Orange County; E97-3968; William B. Purvis; 14 October 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD for this very common pest.
ORNAMENTALS, FLOWERING PLANTS: Adenium obesum (desert-rose)-- Agraulis vanillae (Linnaeus), gulf fritillary butterfly: A severe infestation was found on both of two plants at a residence in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-3450; Mark Gooch, homeowner; 1 September 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.
-- Saissetia coffeae (Walker), hemispherical scale: A severe infestation was found at a nursery in Pierson (Volusia County; E97-3686; Stacy N. Siewnath; 17 September 1997).
Buddleia sp. (butterfly bush)-- Pseudaulacaspis pentagona (Targ.-Tozz.), white peach scale: A severe infestation was found on a plant at a residence in Orlando (Orange County; E97-3886; Barbara J. Wilder; 5 October 1997). The plant was in decline.
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (hibiscus, or China-rose)-- Phenacoccus madeirensis Green, a mealybug: A severe infestation was found on a plant at a flea market in Tampa (Hillsborough County; E97-3550; Harlo von Wald, USDA; 7 September 1997).
-- Singhius hibisci (Kotinsky), a whitefly: A slight infestation was found at a residence in Ft. Pierce (St. Lucie County; E97-0817; Kenneth L. Hibbard; 6 March 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.
Lantana camara (lantana, Exotic Pest Plant Council lists as category I)-- Phenacoccus madeirensis Green, a mealybug: An infestation was found in Apopka (Orange County; E97-3545; Dr. Lance S. Osborne, University of Florida's Central Florida Research and Extension Center; 4 September 1997).
Oncidium sp. (orchid)-- Saissetia coffeae (Walker), hemispherical scale: A severe infestation involved 400 of 500 plants was found at Mt. Dora (Lake County; E97-3914; Christine M. Murphy and Harry L. Morrison; 7 October 1997).
Phalaenopsis sp. (moth orchid)-- Tenuipalpus pacificus Baker a tenuipalpid mite: A severe infestation was found at a nursery in Bradenton (Manatee County; E97-3844; L. Wayne Clifton; 3 October 1997).
Ruellia brittoniana (Mexican bluebell)-- Saissetia coffeae (Walker), hemispherical scale: A severe infestation was found at a nursery in Homestead (Dade County; E97-3905; Lynn D. Howerton; 10 October 1997).
Salvia elegans (pineapple-sage)-- Aleurodicus dugesii Cockerell, giant whitefly: An infestation was found at a nursery in Vero Beach (Indian River County; E97-2256; Richard H. 'Dick' Stoll; 30 May 1997).
Tibouchina sp. (princess flower)-- Ferrisia virgata (Cockerell), striped mealybug: A severe infestation was found in Lake Buena Vista (Orange County; E97-3524; Barbara J. Wilder; 4 September 1997).
FOREST AND SHADE TREES: Celtis laevigata (hackberry, native species)-- Shivaphis celti Das, a hackberry woolly aphid: A severe infestation was found in a natural area in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-3557-001; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 9 September 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD for a recently introduced Asian pest.
-- Tetragonocephala flava Crawford, a nest making psyllid: An infestation was found in a natural area in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-3557-002; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 9 September 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.
Chionanthus pygmaeus (pygmy fringe-tree, state and federally listed endangered species)-- Palpita illibalis (Hb.), a pyralid moth: An infestation was found in a natural area near Avon Park East (Highlands County; E97-1217; Dr. Nancy C. Coile and James 'Jim' E. Bennett; 3 April 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.
Quercus geminata (sand live oak, a native species)-- Belonocnema quercusvirens (Osten Sacken), a gall wasp: A severe infestation was found on 5 plants at a residence in Ocala (Marion County; E97-3543; Floyd J. McHenry; 8 September 1997).
Quercus virginiana (live oak, a native species)-- Andricus quercuslanigera (Ashmead), a gall wasp: A severe infestation was found at a residence in Miami (Dade County; E97-3911; Louis T. Lodyga; 9 October 1997).
FOOD OR CROP PLANTS: Capsicum annuum, Grossum Group (bell pepper)-- Aleurodicus dugesii Cockerell, giant whitefly: A moderate infestation was found at a residence in Vero Beach (Indian River County; E97-2258; Richard H. 'Dick' Stoll; 30 May 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.
-- Faustinus cubae (Boheman), a weevil: A severe infestation was found at a residence in Longwood (Seminole County; E97-3714; Anne F. Weathers; 25 September 1997).
Foeniculum vulgare (fennel)-- Hyadaphis coriandri (Das), coriander aphid: Moderate infestations were found in Apopka (Orange County; E97-3603; Anthony N. Capitano; 11 September 1997) and Orlando (Orange County; E97-3774, Anthony N. Capitano and Barbara J. Wilder; 29 September 1997). A pest of coriander, this species also feeds on fennel, dill, cumin, and carrots. Coriander aphid is native to Central Asia and is established in Europe. NEW RECORD FOR THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE (Dr. Susan E. Halbert).
Hemarthria altissima 'Floralta' (limpograss cultivar)-- Dysmicoccus brevipes (Cockerell), pineapple mealybug: A moderate infestation was found in a pasture near Ft. Pierce (St. Lucie County; E97-1838; Dr. Albert E. Kretschmer, Jr., University of Florida's Indian River Research and Education Center; 1 May 1997).
Ocimum basilicum (basil)-- Tetranychus gloveri Banks, a spider mite: An infestation was found at a nursery in Melbourne (Brevard County; E97-3881; David H. Faneuf; 8 October 1997).
Phaseolus lunatus (lima bean)-- Tetranychus ludeni Zacher, a spider mite: A moderate infestation was found in Lake Alfred (Polk County; E97-3677; Dr. Mohamed Abou-Setta, Visiting Scholar, University of Florida's Citrus Research and Extension Center; 20 May 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.
Solanum melongena (eggplant)-- Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks), broad mite: A severe infestation was found at a farm (Hillsborough County; E97-3701; David J. Schuster, University of Florida's Gulf Coast Research and Extension Center, Bradenton; 19 September 1997).
CITRUS: Citrus limon (lemon)-- Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), brown citrus aphid: A slight infestation was found at a residence in Bushnell (Sumter County; E97-4048; L.J. Chambliss; 21 October 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.
Citrus maxima 'Nakon' (pummelo cultivar)-- Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), brown citrus aphid: A slight infestation was found in Winter Haven (Polk County; E97-4143; Dr. Peggy J. Sieburth; 31 October 1997).
Citrus meyeri (Meyer lemon)-- Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), brown citrus aphid: A severe infestation was found at a residence in New Smyrna Beach (Volusia County; E97-3437; L.J. Chambliss and Tom Maniere, homeowner; 28 August 1997). This host sometimes is infected with a severe strain of citrus tristeza virus (Dr. Lawrence G. Brown). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD (Dr. Susan E. Halbert).
X Citrofortunella microcarpa (calamondin)-- Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), brown citrus aphid: A slight infestation was found in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-3494; Dr. Susan E. Halbert, Dr. Lawrence G. Brown, and Larry T. Keal, entomology technician, University of Florida; 4 September 1997).
Citrus x paradisi (grapefruit)-- Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), brown citrus aphid: A moderate infestation was found in a screen house at the University of Florida, Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-3475; Larry T. Keal, entomology technician, University of Florida; 4 September 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.
Citrus unshiu 'Kimbrough' (satsuma cultivar)-- Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), brown citrus aphid: A slight infestation was found in Winter Haven (Polk County; E97-4142; Dr. Peggy J. Sieburth; 31 October 1997).
Citrus sinensis (sweet orange)-- Protopulvinaria pyriformis, pyriform scale: An infestation was found at a residence in Pompano Beach (Broward County; E97-0676; James 'Keith' Harris; 27 February 1997). This scale is seldom found on citrus (Dr. Avas B. Hamon).
-- Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), brown citrus aphid: Slight infestations were found in Winter Haven (Polk County; E97-4137 and E97-4148; Dr. Peggy J. Sieburth; 31 October 1997).
WEEDS AND GRASSES: Alternanthera philoxeroides (alligator weed, state prohibited plant)-- Herpetogramma bipunctalis (F.), Southwestern beet webworm: A severe infestation was found in Orlando (Orange County; E97-3791; Barbara J. Wilder; 29 September 1997). This is a native insect which is performing natural biocontrol by external feeding. The introduced biocontrol stemborer feeds internally and the leaves will not be eaten (Dr. Gary R. Buckingham, USDA/Agricultural Research Service, Gainesville).
Chenopodium ambrosioides (Mexican tea)-- Aleurodicus dugesii Cockerell, giant whitefly: An infestation was found in Ft. Pierce (St. Lucie County; E97-2752; Denise V. Marshall; 26 June 1997).
Leguminosae (legume)--Leptopharsa clitoriae (Heidemann), a lacebug: An infestation was found on an unknown plant at a nursery in Lake Katherine (Lake County; E97-3908; Christine M. Murphy; 7 October 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.
NATIVE AND NATURALIZED PLANTS: Chrysobalanus icaco (cocoplum)-- Tuckerella nr. ornata (Tucker), a tuckerellid mite: A moderate infestation was found along a major canal in Homestead (Dade County; E97-3841; Lynn D. Howerton; 1 October 1997). Nearly all new buds look like witches-broom. NEW DPI HOST RECORD.
Coccoloba diversifolia (pigeon-plum)-- Piazorhinus tuberculatus Blatchley, a weevil: A severe infestation was found in a park in Miami (Dade County; E97-3337; Lisa Hammer; 15 August 1997).
Echites umbellata (devil's potato, or rubber-vine)-- Aphis spiraecola Patch, spirea aphid: A moderate infestation was found in Homestead (Dade County; E97-4114; Edward T. Putland; 28 October 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD for this very common pest species.
Eugenia confusa DC. (redberry stopper, a native species)-- Anastrepha suspensa (Loew), Caribbean fruit fly: Maggots emerged from fruit found in Miami (Dade County; E97-2888; Julieta Brambila, University of Florida's Tropical Research and Extension Center, Homestead; May-June 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.
Merremia tuberosa (wood rose, Exotic Pest Plant Council lists as category II)-- Nezara viridula (Linnaeus), southern green stinkbug: A slight infestation was found in a weedy area in Homestead (Dade County; E97-4094; Edward T. Putland and Louis T. Lodyga; 24 October 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.
Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's stopper, state threatened species)-- Aphis spiraecola Patch, spirea aphid: An infestation was found in Sanibel (Lee County; E97-4163; Sheila J. Foe; 30 October 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD for this common pest species.
Myrsine floridana (Florida rapanea, or Guianese colicwood)-- Toxoptera aurantii (Boyer de Fonscolombe), black citrus aphid: An infestation was found at a nursery in Sanibel (Lee County; E97-4165; Alan J. Gambill; 30 October 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.
Rhus copallina (winged sumac)-- Blepharida rhois (Forster), a leaf beetle: A severe infestation was found at an airport in Jacksonville (Duval County; E97-3200; Flewellyn W. Podris; 5 August 1997). New growth of plant was completely eaten. Another slight infestation was found in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-4092; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 28 October 1997).
Thalia geniculata (bent alligator flag, or fireflag)-- Ischnodemus fulvipes (DeGeer), a seed bug: A moderate infestation was found near Okeechobee (Okeechobee County; E97-3865; Kenneth L. Hibbard; 2 October 1997). NEW DPI COUNTY RECORD.
Typha latifolia (cattail)-- Ceroplastes floridensis Comstock, Florida wax scale: A population was found in a natural area in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-3641; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 15 September 1997). NEW DPI HOST RECORD.
-- Naudea n. sp., a tydeid mite: A population was found in a natural area in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-3661; Dr. Robert P. Esser; 17 September 1997). NEW DPI STATE RECORD (Dr. W. Cal Welbourn).
Zanthoxylum fagara (wild-lime, or prickly-ash)-- Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), brown citrus aphid: A slight infestation was found in Winter Haven (Polk County; E97-4135; Dr. Peggy J. Sieburth; 31 October 1997).
BENEFICIAL INSECTS: Aulacaspis yasumatsui (giant whitefly)-- Curinus coeruleus Mulsant, a lady bird beetle: A specimen was found in Miami (Dade County; E97-4019; Holly B. Glenn, University of Florida's Tropical Research and Extension Center, Homestead; 13 October 1997).
Pseudococcus longispinus (a mealybug)-- Coccidoctonus sp., a hyperparasite: Three specimens emerged from parasitized mealybugs which infested Cycas circinalis found in Homestead (Dade County; E97-3919; Holly B. Glenn; 13 May 1997). This insect actually feeds on the primary parasite of the mealybug (Dr. Gregory A. Evans, post-doctoral research fellow, University of Florida and OPS with Division of Plant Industry). NEW DPI STATE AND HOST RECORDS (Dr. Gregory A. Evans).
Romalea guttata (spur-throated grasshopper)-- Anisia serotina (Reinhard), a tachinid parasite: Several specimens were reared from a collection in Copeland (Collier County; E97-3948; Dr. Daniel Otto, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, visiting in Florida; July 1997). PROBABLE NEW HOST RECORD (Dr. Gary J. Steck).
Tetragonocephala flava (a nest-making psyllid)-- Aprostocetus gelastus (Burks), a eulophid parasite: Several specimens were reared from psyllids collected in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-3808; Dr. Robert P. Esser and Dr. Susan E. Halbert; 11 September 1997). In other parts of the country, the recently introduced psyllid has caused major damage to its host, Celtis laevigata; however, this damage has not been observed in Florida. Many Tetragonocephala flava in Florida are parasitized, possibly with this species of parasite and/or others (Dr. Susan E. Halbert). NEW DPI HOST AND COUNTY RECORDS (Dr. Gregory A. Evans, post-doctoral research fellow, University of Florida and OPS with Division of Plant Industry).
FEDERAL/STATE PLANT PROTECTION AND QUARANTINE PROGRAMS: Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), Mediterranean fruit fly (medfly): Only a single wild medfly was detected anywhere in the surveillance area during September/October. This was a male captured in a trimedlure trap in Auburndale (Polk County; E97-3952; G. Bramlett; 6 October 1997). The Highland City (Polk Co.) infestation appears to have been quickly contained, since the last detection there was on August 28 (first detection was August 1). Sterile insect releases continued at a rate of about 240 million flies per week over much of the urban Tampa area. Barring discovery of additional wild medflies, sterile fly releases will terminate in late November (Dr. Gary J. Steck).
INSECTS OF MEDICAL AND VETERINARY IMPORTANCE: Hibana velox (Becker), ghost spider: A specimen was collected in Gainesville (Alachua County; E97-3467; Kimberly Croutharnel; 2 September 1997). The spider was suspected of causing a 6 cm necrotic wound almost 1 cm deep. Previously known bites from the ghost spider did not cause serious wounds (Dr. G. B. Edwards).
Latrodectus geometricus Koch, brown widow spider: A specimen was collected in Jacksonville (Duval County; E97-3428; J. Barnhard, homeowner; 22 August 1997). This species is highly venomous (Dr. G.B. Edwards).
Theridion rufipes Lucas, a spider: Homeowner had several lesions which she presumed were caused by these spiders in Daytona North (Flagler County; E97-3551; Barbara Haradzin, homeowner; 3 September 1997). It is unlikely that this spider caused the lesions since there is no record of this spider biting people. Further, this species is related to the widow spiders and would not likely have venom which would cause lesions (Dr. G. B. Edwards).
INSECT DETECTION: Amphicerus sp., an exotic bostrichid beetle: A moderate infestation caused considerable damage to teak orchid baskets in Miami (Dade County; E97-3991; Holly B. Glenn, University of Florida's Tropical Research and Extension Center, Homestead; 15 October 1997). The beetle is not A. cornutus (Pallas), the Florida species (Dr. Michael C. Thomas).
Minthea reticulata Lesne, a lyctid beetle: A severe infestation was found on wood from Bali at an amusement park in Lake Buena Vista (Orange County; E97-3837; Bob Fragales; 1 October 1997). This beetle is widespread in Southeast Asia, but is not reported as established in the United States (Dr. Paul E. Skelley).
Shivaphis celti Das, a hackberry woolly aphid: Specimens were collected in suction traps installed at Quincy (Gadsden County; E97-3891; Dr. Richard K. Sprenkel, University of Florida's North Florida Research and Extension Center, and Dr. Susan E. Halbert; 3-10 October 1997) and Winter Haven (Polk County; E97-3498; Michael C. Kesinger and Dr. Susan E. Halbert; 25 August - 5 September 1997). Both collections are NEW DPI COUNTY RECORDS for this recent Asian introduction (Dr. Susan E. Halbert).
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NEMATOLOGY SECTION
Compiled by Renato N. Inserra, Ph.D.
A total of 3,075 samples were processed in September and October. Details are shown below:
Certification and Regulatory Samples:
Multistate Certification for National and
International Export 1,668
California Certification 898
Premovement 97
Burrowing Nematodes 82
Other Samples:
Site or Pit Approval 42
Out of state survey, via
Florida Interceptions 8
Plant Problem 35
Intrastate Survey, Random 245
Nematodes of Special Interest Identified in This Period: Aloe vera (aloe)--Rotylenchulus reniformis Linford & Oliveira, 1940, reniform nematode, Swollen females and eggs of this nematode were extracted from roots of this ornamental (Alachua County; N97-0121; Carol R. Cochran; 23 October 1997). Aloe is a new host for the reniform nematode and should be included in the list of ornamental plants which are susceptible to the reniform nematode attacks. Stocks of this succulent ornamental for export to markets imposing restrictions against R. reniformis should be grown under appropriate sanitation conditions to avoid reniform nematode infections, especially in nurseries with records of R. reniformis.
Hemerocallis spp. (daylily)--Pratylenchus pratensis (De Man, 1880) Filipjev, 1936, lesion nematode. Intercepted in root material of plants introduced into Florida from Pennsylvania (N97-00915; Dr. Paul S. Lehman; 18 August 1997). Daylilies are a new host for P. pratensis.
Phyllostachys aurea (fishpole bamboo)--Afenestrata koreana Vovlas, Lamberti & Choo, 1992, bamboo cyst nematode. Females, egg masses and cysts of this nematode were extracted from roots of this ornamental (Hernando County; N97-00945; Samuel A. Fuller;15 August 1997). The bamboo cyst nematode has been reported only in Korea, where it was described originally. This is the first report of A. koreana in the United States, where the nematode was introduced very probably with bamboo propagative material imported from Asia. The damage that this nematode causes to bamboo is not known.
Phyllostachys aurea (fishpole bamboo)--Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White, 1919) Chitwood, 1949, southern root-knot nematode. Extracted from roots of this ornamental (Hernando County; N97-01022; Samuel A. Fuller; 9 September 1997).
COLLECTORS SUBMITTING FIVE OR MORE SAMPLES THAT WERE PROCESSED FOR NEMATOLOGICAL ANALYSIS DURING SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER 1997:
Beckwith, Joseph S. 'Joe' 5
Dees, Carrie S. 83
Fuller, Samuel A. 87
Harris, James 41
LeBoutillier, Karen W. 303
Peacock, Maria E. 12
Qiao, Ping. 319
Robinson, William L. 'Robbie' 287
Salisbury, Thomas L. 232
Smith, Larry W. 6
Smith, W. Wayne 82
Wigelsworth, Jimmie R. 8
PLANT PATHOLOGY
Compiled by John W. Miller, Ph. D.
For this period, the Plant Pathology Section received and processed 1,453 specimens. These included 514 pathology, 7 miscellaneous, 13 soil, 903 suspect canker samples as of 3 October 1997 in Dade County, and 16 suspect canker samples from Manatee County.
ORNAMENTALS, WOODY PLANTS AND PALMS: Juniperus virginiana (eastern red cedar, a native species)-- Bipolaris sp., leaf spot: Collected at a nursery in Zolfo Springs (Hardee County; P97-2381; James E. 'Jim' Bennett and Carrie S. Dees; 22 September 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.
ORNAMENTALS, FOLIAGE PLANTS: Asplenium sp. (fern)-- Cylindrocladium floridanum Sobers & C. P. Seymour, Phoma sp., and Pestalotiopsis sp., leaf spots: Collected at a nursery in Tallahassee (Leon County; P97-2364; Jimmie R. Wigelsworth; 19 September 1997). NEW HOST RECORDS.
ORNAMENTALS, FLOWERING PLANTS: Rosa sp. (rose)-- Diapleella coniothyrium, cane blight: Collected at a dooryard in Lakeland ( Polk County; P97-2344; Donald R. Robbins; 19 September 1997).
Prunella sp. (prunella)-- Rhizoctonia sp., stem & leaf blight: Collected at a nursery in Jacksonville (Duval County; P97-2438; Flewellyn W. Podris; 29 September 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.
FOREST AND SHADE TREES: Liquidambar styraciflua (sweet gum, a native species)-- Elsinoe sp., scab: Collected at a tree farm in Deland (Volusia County; P97-2352; Stacey N. Siewnath; 16 September 1997). NEW HOST RECORD.
