Laurel wilt in Florida

Florida redbay trees are dying at an alarming rate. They are being attacked by a recently introduced dangerous duo - a symbiotic plant pest and

disease. The disease is caused by a fungus (Raffaelea lauricola) that is introduced into host trees by a non-native insect, the redbay ambrosia

beetle (Xyleborus glabratus). Laurel wilt is not only a deadly disease to redbay (Persea borbonia), but also other tree species in the Laurel

family (Lauraceae). This includes the avocado.

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Tags:

• avocado
• redbay
• tree disease
• firewood
• transporting wood
• insect
• beetle
• fungus
• plant disease
• invasive
• exotic
• forest
• guacamole
• Florida
• agriculture
• pest