|
Scouting Citrus for Pests - Page 23
In most groves IRFA is the dominant ant, particularly among those foraging on the ground. While valuable as a predator of Diaprepes larvae and possibly other pests, it can be a pest in its own right for many reasons. Removal of bark from the base of young trees to feed on sap can induce the onset of foot rot caused by the fungus Phytophthora spp. The ants may also eat leaf and flower buds. Emitters may be plugged up by ants searching for water, although other ant species do this as well. Finally, they can be a serious nuisance for personnel, particularly harvesting crews. The best control for fire ants are baits containing slow-acting toxicants. Examples include (Logic® and Extinguish®) utilizing the juvenile hormone mimics fenoxycarb
and methoprene respectively, and Clinch® containing abamectin. Extinguish and Clinch are labeled for use on all citrus and Logic on non-bearing citrus. Temporary control of fire ants in bearing citrus can be effected with soil-directed sprays or injections of Lorsban®. An oil spray may be sufficient to gain a few days relief for pickers.
Back | Next
Page Number:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 |
