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Title: Efficacy of an entomopathogenic fungus, Isaria fumosorosea and an insect growth regulator against the rugose spiraling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

Author
item KUMAR, VIVEK - University Of Florida
item AVERY, PASCO - University Of Florida
item CAVE, RON - University Of Florida
item FRANCIS, ANTONIO - Florida Department Of Agriculture And Consumer Services
item SMITH, TREVOR - Florida Department Of Agriculture And Consumer Services
item McKenzie, Cindy
item OSBORNE, LANCE - University Of Florida

Submitted to: Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/9/2013
Publication Date: 11/9/2013
Citation: Kumar, V., Avery, P.B., Cave, R., Francis, A., Smith, T., McKenzie, C.L., Osborne, L. 2013. Efficacy of an entomopathogenic fungus, Isaria fumosorosea and an insect growth regulator against the rugose spiraling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)[abstract]. Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting. Paper No. D0393.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin, infamous as gumbo limbo or rugose spiraling whitefly is a new addition in the list of devastating whitefly species found in Florida. It is a newly introduced pest of Central American origin, reported first time in Florida from Miami-Dade County in 2009. Since then, its distribution range is increasing and now it has been reported causing damage to ornamental plant hosts in at least 10 counties of Florida. Feeding damage caused by this pest not only brings its host under stress, but the massive production of wax and honeydew promoting the growth of fungus sooty mold, is causing a nuisance for homeowners and property managers in the infested region. The pathogenicity of a naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus, Isaria fumosorosea is well known for its activity against commonly found whiteflies species in Florida. In the current study, we tested the efficacy of this entomopathogenic fungus alone and in combination with an insect growth regulator against the rugose spiraling whitefly under optimum laboratory conditions. Results from this study will be significant for the development of a biocontrol strategy against this serious invasive pest of palm, gumbo limbo and white bird of paradise etc. present in Florida.