Identifying the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer Beetle
A newly discovered beetle, the polyphagous shot hole borer beetle, is morphologically indistinguishable from the tea shot hole borer, and is believed to vector a new Fusarium sp. leading to Fusarium dieback disease that affects avocado trees.
Identifying Persea Mites
There are three types of mites that feed on California avocado trees. All three of these mites damage avocado leaves by removing chlorophyll during feeding. Excessive feeding can lead to rapid loss of avocado leaves, effecting the number of avocado fruit on the tree.
Avocado Persea Mite Pest Management
Persea mites damage avocado trees by removing chlorophyll from the leaves when feeding. As a result, once 7.5-10% of the leaf surface is damaged, the leaves begin to drop. Because healthy leaves are critical to a healthy avocado tree and crop, persea mite damage can effect avocado growers’ profitability.
Avocado Thrips Pest Management
There are many ways to manage thrips. Sampling, biological and cultural control, and chemical control combined with employing a knowledgeable pest control advisor to assist with scouting and decision-making, is considered best practice.
Where Avocado Thrips Are Found and the Damage They Cause
What are the ideal and non-ideal grove conditions for avocado thrips? What types of damage can thrips cause?
Identifying Avocado Thrips
The major thrips pest attacking California avocados is the avocado thrips, Scirtothrips perseae Nakahara. Originally noticed in 1996, 99% of California avocado acreage is now infested to some degree with this pest.
