Psyllid Control Discussed at South African Citrus Symposium

Researchers Marcelo Miranda and Haroldo Volpe with Brazil’s Fundecitrus discussed control of the HLB-spreading psyllid during a recent visit to a South African research symposium and accompanying events.

During the Citrus Research Symposium in Drakensberg, Miranda discussed studies developed at Fundecitrus on the management of the HLB-spreading psyllid (Diaphorina citri). In South Africa, HLB is caused by a bacteria different from that which occurs in Brazil and is spread by the African psyllid (Trioza erytreae).

In Buffeljagsrivier, researchers met with 16 producers, where they discussed regional psyllid management. In this region, the incidence of HLB varies according to the management adopted on the properties. During the meeting, Volpe discussed studies to control the psyllid with bioinsecticides, and Miranda presented data from studies on the management of the psyllid.

Researchers attending the symposium also had the opportunity to:

• Visit the Citrus Genetics Laboratory at the University of Stellenbosch and orchards in the regions of Citrusdal, Buffeljags and Sundays River Valley.
• Visit the Citrus Foundation Block in Port Elizabeth. It operates in the production of seeds from rootstocks and buds, ensuring that producers receive high-quality, disease-free plant material.
• Talk to companies specializing in biological and semiochemical products for managing citrus pests.

The Citrus Research Symposium was organized by Citrus Research International (CRI). It brought together approximately 800 people. They included citrus producers, representatives of chemical industries, technicians from the citrus sector and speakers from various countries. The symposium’s aim was to provide information on citrus research conducted by scientists from different institutions and countries.

CRI, maintained by citrus growers in South Africa, carries out research related to the management of citrus pests and diseases. It also works in the area of ​​Extension, biosecurity and support for the international trade of fruits such as oranges, tangerines and lemons.

Source: Fundecitrus

Sponsored Content