Calophya terebinthifolii (Hemiptera: Calophyidae), A candidate for biological control of schinus terebinthifolius (Sapindales: Anacardiaceae): Feeding preferences and impact studies

Abstract

A leaflet galling psyllid Calophya terebinthifolii (Burckhardt &Basset) has been identified as a potential biological control agent for the invasive weed Brazilian peppertree. Preliminary field and laboratory research conducted in Santa Catarina, Brazil suggest the psyllid is a Schinus specialist and is capable of reducing the growth of Brazilian peppertrees. Further host range testing is needed to determine if C. terebinthifolii is sufficiently host specific for release in Florida. Copyright © 2011 BioOne All rights reserved.