Based on this knowledge, we are developing a push-pull system to control whiteflies in cucurbits using kaolin, visual attractants and repellents. We demonstrated that whiteflies are attracted to geminivrius-infected plants due to the yellowing of the host leaves and changes in volatile emissions. Regarding whiteflies, we are examining their host preference and how chemical cues interact with visual cues. We established the phenology and the distribution of thrips affecting onion in north Florida. We developed a new trap method to sample thrips and whiteflies in vegetables. We found that MPB are using thrips walking trails to find their prey (article in preparation). We now are studying how MPB uses thrips cues (such as thrips odors, and thrips ‘footprints’) to locate preys. We first developed a new rearing method for MPB (article in preparation). Among them, the minute pirate bug (MPB) have shown very high capabilities in controlling thrips populations. Therefore, I have initiated a program to study the ecology and behavior of thrips and whitefly and their associated natural enemies. Among them, thrips and whiteflies cause the highest losses by transmitting multiple plant viruses. North Florida vegetable production is hampered by a complex of generalist insects. Recently, these repellents have been integrated in two push-pull systems that are particularly efficient in reducing the number of ambrosia beetles attacking redbay and avocado, respectively (one article submitted, one in preparation). The identified repellents have been used in field situations to decrease infestations of X. We studied the chemical ecology of the beetles and demonstrated that glabratus is repelled by volatiles associated to salicylic acid pathway systemic response. The Redbay ambrosia beetle (RAB) is the vector of the fungus responsible for laurel wilt disease that has been destructive to trees in the family Lauraceae in Southeastern forests of United States.

Manipulaitng habitat by planting windbreaks offers an important non-chemical management tool. However, we have observed that windbreaks contribute to reduce psyllid migrations within citrus groves and protect citrus grove against citrus leafminers. citri can disperse several kilometers during both spring and summer, using wind currents as a carrier. This is concerning as my research demonstrated that D. citri was not found north of Gainesville However, We have recently discovered that the Asian citrus psyllid is established in North Florida, mostly in urban habitats and is able to survive winter temperatures below 32° F (article in preparation).

Citrus greening has destroyed the citrus industry in south and central Florida, infecting 80% of the citrus cultivated. Since my arrival to the University of Florida, I have been interested in the ecology and behavior of the Asian citrus psyllid, the vector of the pathogen that causes citrus greening. My research focuses on four main projects. plant-insect communication), and development of environmentally sound methods to control these pests. The common ground of my program involves applied chemical ecology (i.e. Dr Martini’s research focuses on different insect pest vectors of plant pathogens.

Thepirate bay citrio