The Asian citrus psyllid was recently spotted on a California farm, causing anxiety among growers, as the bug can spread diseases to trees and other plants. In fact, expert pest control professionals are warning California farmers to be prepared for possible commercial grove quarantines if the psyllids are found on their land.
Ag Alert said the winged insect is not destructive in itself, as it feeds harmlessly on citrus plants common in California and Florida. As the insect feeds, however, it can spread bacterium that brings a disease, commonly known as citrus greening, to trees and plants. So far, California farmers have not reported cases of citrus greening, but Florida farmers said it reduced the state's commercial citrus production by 10 percent in 2011. Texas has also experienced cases of citrus greening, affecting the Rio Grande Valley's production of grapefruit and oranges.
Experts predict citrus greening could easily make its way to California farms, due to the state's proximity to Mexico and the rise of global trade that could transplant the bugs into the state. California lawmakers recently learned Florida lost more than 60,000 acres of citrus trees due to the psyllid infestation, and almost all of Florida's citrus trees could be infected in seven to 12 years, the source reported.
A recent report from the Fresno Bee said a single Asian citrus psyllid was recently spotted in a Tulare County citrus grove. The bug was found in an insect trap, and is the first evidence of psyllids in the Valley's citrus belt. Pest control specialists are working with lawmakers to create a preventative plan to ensure crops are not lost due to the psyllid's presence.