Red bay Ambrosia Beetle & Spead of Laurel Wilt: Pathogen is Killing Native Redbay and Avocado Trees in Florida

摘要

Laurel wilt is a disease of redbay (Persea borbonia), avocado (P. amercicana) and other trees in the Lauraceae (Laurel Family). The disease is caused by the Raffaelea lauricola fungus and spread by the exotic redbay ambrosia beetle (Xyleborus glabratus). The beetle is indigenous to Asia and was first detected in a survey trap in Port Wentworth, Georgia in 2002 and is linked to the introduction of contaminated packing or pallet material. Since that time the beetle and disease has spread through largeparts of Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida, literally decimating the natural redbay tree population.