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Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 10/26/2016 Publication Date: 10/26/2017 Citation: Dunlap, C.A. 2017. Approaches to control diseases vectored by ambrosia beetles in avocado and other American Lauraceae. Meeting Abstract. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Invasive ambrosia beetles and the plant pathogenic fungi they vector represent a significant challenge to North American agriculture, native and landscape trees. Ambrosia beetles encompass a range of insect species and they vector a diverse set of plant pathogenic fungi. Our lab has taken several biocontrol approaches to control and limit the impact of the beetles and their vectored diseases. Our research has evaluated entomopathogens and formulation techniques to directly control the beetle. In addition, we have screened a variety of microorganisms as potential antagonists of the pathogenic fungi themselves. This work has led to the discovery of five bacteria that have activity against both plant pathogens. Some of these strains of bacteria have never previously been isolated as antifungal antagonists. Scientists at NCAUR have also contributed to understanding the phylogeny and taxonomic relationships for both the insects and fungi. |
