Assessing Entomopathogenic Fungi for Asian Citrus Psyllid Management
Posted August 2025
Researchers: Jawwad Qureshi, Seth Tsatsu
Contact: Jawwad Qureshi, UF/IFAS SWFREC jawwadq@ufl.edu
Summary:
The Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) is the primary vector of huanglongbing (HLB) . Multiple tools are needed for developing integrated pest management for ACP. Besides arthropod predators and parasitoids providing biological control, an array of entomopathogenic fungi have been reported to infect ACP including Beauveria bassiana, Cordyceps javanica, and Hirsutella sp. However, little is known about their phenology and impact on the ACP particularly of Hirsutella citriformis which has been observed in citrus groves. Almost two decades ago, a study reported interactions of H. citriformis and ACP resulting in 23% ACP mortality with the maximum of 75%. Our preliminary investigation revealed very low or no infections in feral ACP in the field. We will be conducting more research this rainy season and following fall and winter as well as evaluating transmission dynamics and impact of H. citriformis and commercially available entomopathogenic fungal products on ACP. Laboratory results in the direct exposure experiments showed 99% ACP mortality within two weeks, highest at 82.4 °F and >90% RH. Field mortality in uninfected ACP adults exposed to infected adults and surfaces averaged 47%, increasing with exposure time. Mycosis occurred in 30% of cadavers from misted cages and 15% from non-misted ones. These findings highlight the potential of H. citriformis in suppressing ACP populations, especially under favorable environmental conditions, supporting its integration into citrus IPM.
Take Home Message:
- Several entomopathogenic fungi have been reported to infect ACP and suppress its populations in the field.
- Commercially available entomopathogenic fungal products have shown impact on ACP.
- Entomopathogenic fungi are an additional important tool for biological control and IPM of ACP.
