Maconellicoccus hirsutus found in Florida (US)
In June 2002, Maconelicoccus hirsutus (EPPO Alert List) was reported for the first time in Florida (US). It was found on Hibiscus plants at several locations in two counties (Broward and Miami-Dade). Surveys are being carried out to determine the extent of infestation. After surveys are completed, a biological programme using the parasitoids Anagyrus kamali and Gyranusoidea indica will be launched to control the pest. M. hirsutus occurs in many parts of the Caribbean, and in USA it had previously been reported in southern California (EPPO RS 99/172).
Sources
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NAPPO Phytosanitary Alert System - http://www.pestalert.org/Pestnews.cfm
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Press Release 2002-06-20.
http://doacs.state.fl.us/press/06202002.html
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