First report of Diaphorina citri in USA (Florida)
In June 1998, Diaphorina citri (EPPO A1 quarantine pest – a vector of citrus greening bacterium 'Liberobacter asiaticum') was found for the first time in USA, in south-eastern Florida. A survey carried out in June 1998 indicated that D. citri infests citrus in Palm Beach, Broward and Martin counties, and the Indian River citrus-growing area. Further surveys are being carried out to determine the extent of the infestation, but it seems that the pest is already too widespread to be eradicated. The origin of this introduction is unknown. So far, it is not known whether L. asiaticum has been introduced with its vector, although it may be noted that D. citri occurs elsewhere in America (Brazil) in the absence of L. asiaticum. This is the first report of D. citri in USA.
Sources
ProMED posting from Schuber, T. Citrus canker – USA (Florida), 1998-08-06
http://www.healthnet.org/programs/promed.html
Hoy, M.A.; Nguyen, R. (1998) Citrus psylla: here in Florida – An action plan (updated).
http://extlab1.entnem.ufl.edu.PestAlert/hoy-0615.html