Populations of Asian citrus psyllids (ACP) have been detected in both residential and commercial citrus in Georgia's Lowndes and Wayne counties in recent months. ACP is the vector of huanglongbing (HLB) disease. In several locations where ACP was found, HLB-infected trees were also identified.
University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (UGA CAES) entomologist Apurba Barman reported the findings on the UGA Citrus Blog. "This disease (HLB) has reduced Florida's citrus production by nearly 90% since it was first identified in 2005 … These recent finds suggest that the situation here in Georgia may be similar to the initial stages of the epidemic in Florida, which began after ACP was first detected in that state in 1998," Barman said. He added that because disease symptoms appear months or even years after infection, additional trees may already be in the early stages of infection in these counties.
ACP infestations were recently confirmed in two commercial groves in Wayne County and one residential site in Lowndes County. Earlier detections also occurred in Pierce County groves in late 2023 and 2024.
"Until these recent finds, it had been hoped that the significantly cooler winter temperatures experienced in Georgia would limit ACP survival and establishment in Georgia's cold-hardy citrus production region," Barman noted. "If we want to keep our citrus industry growing, we must pledge to keep the insect (ACP) and HLB at bay. I believe that we are at the very initial phase of ACP spread, and it is still possible to keep this insect under control if decisive actions are taken immediately … Both monitoring (scouting) for ACP and control of this insect pest through insecticides will be essential."
Monitoring methods include regular use of yellow sticky cards and visual inspections of citrus trees. "New leaves (flushes) in citrus trees are a preferred site for ACP reproduction and feeding and are a good starting place to look for this insect," Barman explained. In commercial groves, he recommends placing at least six to eight sticky cards, especially along border rows where ACP activity is often first detected. Cards should be checked regularly and replaced every two weeks.
"If you find ACP on sticky cards or see them on your trees, please get in touch with your respective UGA county Extension agent to confirm and arrange testing of these insects for the presence of HLB-causing bacteria," Barman said. "Controlling this insect via insecticides is critical to reduce or prevent the spread of HLB disease."
Source: Citrus Industry