Biological Control of Red Gum Lerp Psyllid

PROBLEM: Lerp psyllid, Glycaspis brimblecmbei, has spread rapidly throughout California’s landscape red gum Eucalyptus.

SIGNIFICANCE: Lerp honeydew creates problems and trees are threatened. Natural enemies attack but fail to control. Most people do not appreciate the importance of classical biological control projects to restore natural enemies with pests and do not understand the role of ant interference in biological control. They can learn these fundamental principles through this example.

STRATEGY: Demonstrate improved biological control by reducing ant interference, pursue collaboration with the University of California regarding production and release of imported parasites and provide education to the public about the case.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Educational materials have been developed, assistance was provided for a science fair project that won several prizes and community attention.