Skip to main content
IFAS ExtensionUniversity of Florida
Login
Photo of Elena M. Rhodes

Elena M. Rhodes

staff

Send Email

Elena M. Rhodes

Orcid ID0000-0002-8465-8453

staff

Publications

thumbnail for publication: El crisomélido de tropical soda apple Gratiana boliviana Spaeth (Insecta: Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae)

El crisomélido de tropical soda apple Gratiana boliviana Spaeth (Insecta: Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae)

William A. Overholt, Rodrigo R. Diaz, William A. Overholt, Kenneth L. Hibbard, yJulio C. Medal
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

Este documento proporciona un perfil detallado del escarabajo tropical de la manzana de soda, Gratiana boliviana, un importante agente de control biológico. Cubre la biología, el ciclo de vida, la distribución y el papel del escarabajo en el manejo de la planta invasora de manzana de soda tropical en Florida. El artículo destaca la especificidad del escarabajo para su planta huésped, su eficacia en la reducción de la densidad de malezas y los beneficios económicos del uso del control biológico sobre los métodos químicos. La información está destinada tanto a legos con algunos conocimientos biológicos como a audiencias académicas. 

thumbnail for publication: Tawny Crazy Ant (previously known as Caribbean crazy ant) Nylanderia (formerly Paratrechina) fulva (Mayr) (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Formicinae)

Tawny Crazy Ant (previously known as Caribbean crazy ant) Nylanderia (formerly Paratrechina) fulva (Mayr) (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Formicinae)

Shweta Sharma, John Warner, and Rudolph H. Scheffrahn

Nylanderia fulva is part of a group of ants referred to as “crazy ants” due to their quick and erratic movements. It has been reported from 27 counties of Florida and 27 counties of Texas, as well as from Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. Huge number of workers in infested areas can make human activities uncomfortable and difficult. They can infest sidewalks, buildings and gardens, and damage phone lines, air conditioning units and computers. They have killed honey bee larvae and used the hives as their nests, and are even displacing red imported fire ants where the two populations overlap in Texas.

thumbnail for publication: Integrated Pest Management Tools for Strawberry Seed Bug Pest on Organic Strawberries in Florida

Integrated Pest Management Tools for Strawberry Seed Bug Pest on Organic Strawberries in Florida

Oscar E. Liburd, Hannah R. Talton, yElena M. Rhodes

Strawberry seed bug, Neopamera bilobata (Say), is a pest of organic strawberries in Florida. The rhyparochromidae species has been collected in a range of habitats worldwide, including South and Central America and many states in the southeastern United States. Strawberry seed bugs can cause injury to ripe strawberries, decreasing growers’ profits. Integrated pest management techniques can mitigate strawberry seed bug populations in organic systems. This publication provides an overview of the strawberry seed bug and the injuries it can cause to strawberries produced in Florida. It includes monitoring and management options growers can use against strawberry seed bugs in organic strawberry production.

thumbnail for publication: Golden Tortoise Beetle, Charidotella (=Metriona) bicolor (Fabricius) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

Golden Tortoise Beetle, Charidotella (=Metriona) bicolor (Fabricius) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

John L. Capinera yJohn L. Capinera
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an overview of the golden tortoise beetle, Charidotella bicolor, including its distribution, life cycle, and description. Found primarily in eastern North America, this beetle is known for its distinctive golden metallic color. The article details the beetle's life stages, from egg to adult, and its feeding habits on plants in the Convolvulaceae family. It also discusses natural enemies and management strategies, emphasizing that while the beetle can cause defoliation, it is rarely abundant enough to be considered a significant pest.

thumbnail for publication: Diaprepes Root Weevil, Diaprepes abbreviatus (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Diaprepes Root Weevil, Diaprepes abbreviatus (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Robin M. Giblin-Davis, T. J. Weissling, T. J. Weissling, Jorge E. Peña, Robin M. Giblin-Davis, yJoseph L. Knapp
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

This document provides an in-depth profile of the Diaprepes root weevil, Diaprepes abbreviatus, a significant pest in Florida. Native to the Caribbean, it was first reported in Florida in 1964 and has since spread, causing extensive damage to citrus and other crops. The article details the weevil's life cycle, host range, and the economic impact of its infestation. It also discusses various management strategies, including biological control methods and integrated pest management practices aimed at mitigating the damage caused by this pest. First published 1998. 

thumbnail for publication: Sweetpotato Weevil, Cylas formicarius (Fabricius) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Brentidae)

Sweetpotato Weevil, Cylas formicarius (Fabricius) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Brentidae)

John L. Capinera yJohn L. Capinera
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the sweetpotato weevil, Cylas formicarius, highlighting its significance as a major pest of sweet potatoes globally. It covers the weevil's distribution, life cycle, host plants, natural enemies, and the damage it causes. Management strategies, including sampling, insecticides, cultural practices, biological control, and other methods, are discussed to mitigate the impact of this pest. The document aims to inform both laypersons with some biological knowledge and academic audiences about the challenges and solutions related to sweetpotato weevil infestations. First published 1998. 

thumbnail for publication: Pink Hibiscus Mealybug, Maconellicoccus hirsutu (Green)

Pink Hibiscus Mealybug, Maconellicoccus hirsutu (Green)

M. A. Hoy, A. Hamon, and R. Nguyen

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the pink hibiscus mealybug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus, a serious pest affecting various plants in tropical and subtropical regions. It details the pest's introduction to Florida, its potential impact on crops and ornamental plants, and the increased pesticide use required for management. The article also discusses the mealybug's distribution, life cycle, and damage caused to plants. Additionally, it explores biological control methods, including the use of natural enemies like ladybugs and parasitoids to suppress mealybug populations.

thumbnail for publication: Blueberry Maggot, Rhagoletis mendax Curran

Blueberry Maggot, Rhagoletis mendax Curran

G. J. Steck and J. A. Payne

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the blueberry maggot, Rhagoletis mendax Curran, a significant pest of commercially grown blueberries. It covers the pest's introduction, distribution, taxonomy, description, host plants, life history, and control methods. The blueberry maggot is found primarily in the northeastern and north central United States and Canada, with recent infestations in the southeastern United States. Effective monitoring and control strategies are essential to manage this pest and protect blueberry crops. First published: July 1998. 

thumbnail for publication: Citrus Blackfly, Aleurocanthus woglumi Ashby (Insecta: Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

Citrus Blackfly, Aleurocanthus woglumi Ashby (Insecta: Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

Ru Nguyen, Avas B. Hamon, Thomas R. Fasulo, yThomas R. Fasulo
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID. Published by Integrated Pest Management. This document provides an in-depth profile of the citrus blackfly, Aleurocanthus woglumi Ashby, a serious citrus pest of Asian origin. It covers the insect's distribution, life cycle, identification, economic importance, and management strategies. The citrus blackfly infests over 300 host plants, primarily citrus, causing damage by sucking nutrients from foliage and excreting honeydew, which leads to sooty mold development. Effective biological control methods, including parasitic wasps, are highlighted as key management strategies in Florida. First published July 1998.

thumbnail for publication: Proturans Protura spp. (Entognatha: Protura)

Proturans Protura spp. (Entognatha: Protura)

Christopher Tipping
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an overview of Protura, minute soil-inhabiting hexapods characterized by the lack of eyes and antennae, and a 12-segmented abdomen. It details their distribution, morphology, and life history, highlighting their unique development by anamorphosis. Protura are found worldwide in soil, leaf litter, and decaying wood. The article also discusses their collection methods and taxonomic classification, noting that Protura are now considered an order within the class Entognatha. The document emphasizes the need for further research to better understand their ecology and biology. Original publication date July 1998.

thumbnail for publication: White Grubs, Phyllophaga spp. (Insecta: Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

White Grubs, Phyllophaga spp. (Insecta: Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

H. Lane Selman

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of white grubs, specifically the larvae of May beetles in the genus Phyllophaga. It covers their distribution, physical description, life cycle, and management strategies. White grubs are significant agricultural pests, causing damage to crops by feeding on plant roots. The article discusses various control methods, including cultural practices, natural enemies, and biological control agents. It also highlights the importance of timely plowing and planting strategies to mitigate grub infestations. Original publication date July 1998.

thumbnail for publication: Hickory Horned Devil (Larva), Regal Moth or Royal Walnut Moth (Adult), Citheronia regalis (Fabricius) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Saturniidae: Ceratocampinae)

Hickory Horned Devil (Larva), Regal Moth or Royal Walnut Moth (Adult), Citheronia regalis (Fabricius) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Saturniidae: Ceratocampinae)

Donald W. Hall

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID. Published by Integrated Pest Management This document provides an in-depth profile of the regal moth, Citheronia regalis, and its larval stage, the hickory horned devil. It covers the moth's distribution, physical description, life cycle, host plants, and natural enemies. The regal moth is notable for its large size and striking appearance. The hickory horned devil, despite its fierce look, is harmless and should be relocated if found in unsuitable environments. The article emphasizes the importance of preserving these moths and provides detailed information for both laypersons and academic audiences. Original publication date August 1998.

thumbnail for publication: Goatweed Butterfly, Goatweed Emperor, Goatweed Leafwing Anaea andria Scudder (1875) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Charaxinae)

Goatweed Butterfly, Goatweed Emperor, Goatweed Leafwing Anaea andria Scudder (1875) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Charaxinae)

Donald W. Hall yJerry F. Butler
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the goatweed butterfly, Anaea andria Scudder, highlighting its cryptic coloration and adaptive behaviors. It covers the butterfly's distribution across the southern Midwest and South, its physical characteristics, and seasonal dimorphism. The life cycle, including mating habits and larval development, is detailed, along with the butterfly's host plants, primarily species in the genus Croton. The document emphasizes the butterfly's ecological significance and the impact of habitat loss on its population. Original publication date September 1998.

thumbnail for publication: Hackberry Petiole Gall Psyllid, Pachypsylla venusta (Osten-Saken)

Hackberry Petiole Gall Psyllid, Pachypsylla venusta (Osten-Saken)

Donald W. Hall, Jerry F. Butler, and Harvey L. Cromroy

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the hackberry petiole gall psyllid, Pachypsylla venusta, focusing on its biology, distribution, and life cycle. The psyllid forms woody galls on hackberry leaf petioles, which are unsightly but not harmful to the host trees. The article details the appearance of adult and nymph stages, the formation and structure of galls, and the role of endosymbiotic bacteria in the psyllid's nutrition. It also discusses the parasitoids that affect the psyllid and the lack of need for control measures due to minimal tree damage. Original publication date September 1998. 

thumbnail for publication: House Dust Mites, Dermatophagoides spp. (Arachnida: Acari: Pyroglyphididae)

House Dust Mites, Dermatophagoides spp. (Arachnida: Acari: Pyroglyphididae)

H. A. Denmark and H. L. Cromroy

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of house dust mites, specifically Dermatophagoides farinae and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. It covers their distribution, physical description, life stages, biology, hosts, and economic importance. The article highlights the medical implications of house dust mites, particularly their role in causing allergies. It also discusses methods for detecting and managing mite populations, emphasizing the importance of reducing humidity and thorough cleaning. The document is part of the Featured Creatures collection, aimed at both laypersons with some biological knowledge and academic audiences. Original publication date October 1998.

thumbnail for publication: House Cricket, Acheta domesticus (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

House Cricket, Acheta domesticus (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Thomas J. Walker

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides a comprehensive profile of the house cricket, Acheta domesticus. It covers the cricket's distribution, life cycle, identification, habitat, and song. The article highlights the cricket's role as bait for fish and food for pets, its inability to survive in the wild in peninsular Florida, and its rearing methods. It also discusses management strategies for house crickets that escape into homes. The document is part of the Featured Creatures collection, aimed at both laypersons with some biological knowledge and academic audiences. Published: January 1999.

thumbnail for publication: Tropical House Cricket, Gryllodes sigillatus (F. Walker)

Tropical House Cricket, Gryllodes sigillatus (F. Walker)

Thomas J. Walker

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids, and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides a detailed profile of the tropical house cricket, Gryllodes sigillatus. It covers the cricket's distribution, life cycle, identification, habitat, and song. The article highlights the cricket's presence in urban areas, its unique calling song, and its occasional indoor occurrences. It also discusses management strategies for controlling cricket populations in buildings. The document is part of the Featured Creatures collection, aimed at both laypersons with some biological knowledge and academic audiences. Original publication date January 1999.

thumbnail for publication: Field Crickets, Gryllus spp. (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Field Crickets, Gryllus spp. (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Thomas J. Walker

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids, and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides a detailed profile of field crickets, Gryllus spp., found in Florida. It covers their distribution, identification, life cycle, habitat, and songs. The article highlights the importance of calling songs for species recognition and the role of field crickets in studies of behavior and neurophysiology. It also discusses wing dimorphism and the economic impact of field crickets, noting their occasional nuisance in suburban areas. The document is part of the Featured Creatures collection, aimed at both laypersons with some biological knowledge and academic audiences. Published: January 1999.

thumbnail for publication: Sand Field Cricket, Gryllus firmus Scudder (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Sand Field Cricket, Gryllus firmus Scudder (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Thomas J. Walker

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids, and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides a detailed profile of the sand field cricket, Gryllus firmus. It covers the cricket's distribution, identification, life cycle, habitat, and song. The article highlights the cricket's chirping song, its variable life cycle, and its presence in lawns, pastures, and roadsides throughout Florida. It also discusses the cricket's role in hybridization with other species and its economic impact. The document is part of the Featured Creatures collection, aimed at both laypersons with some biological knowledge and academic audiences. Published: January 1999.

thumbnail for publication: Southeastern Field Cricket, Gryllus rubens Scudder (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Southeastern Field Cricket, Gryllus rubens Scudder (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Thomas J. Walker

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids, and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides a comprehensive profile of the southeastern field cricket, Gryllus rubens. It covers the cricket's distribution, identification, life cycle, habitat, and song. The article highlights the cricket's unique trilling song, its presence in lawns, roadsides, and pastures, and its abundance in spring and fall. It also discusses the cricket's role in hybridization with other species and its economic impact. The document is part of the Featured Creatures collection, aimed at both laypersons with some biological knowledge and academic audiences. Published: January 1999.

thumbnail for publication: Texas Field Cricket, Gryllus texensis Cade and Otte (Insecta: Orthoptea: Gryllidae)

Texas Field Cricket, Gryllus texensis Cade and Otte (Insecta: Orthoptea: Gryllidae)

Thomas J. Walker
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids, and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides a detailed profile of the Texas field cricket, Gryllus texensis. It covers the cricket's distribution, identification, life cycle, habitat, and song. The article highlights the cricket's occurrence in western Florida, its unique trilling song, and its attraction to light. It also discusses the cricket's role in hybridization with other species and its economic impact. The document is part of the Featured Creatures collection, aimed at both laypersons with some biological knowledge and academic audiences. Published: January 1999.

thumbnail for publication: Southern Wood Cricket, Gryllus fultoni (Alexander) (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Southern Wood Cricket, Gryllus fultoni (Alexander) (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Thomas J. Walker
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids, and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the southern wood cricket, Gryllus fultoni, detailing its distribution, identification, life cycle, habitat, and song. Found throughout the southeastern US, this cricket is distinguished by its unique forewing patterns and stridulatory file. It overwinters as a juvenile and matures in spring, inhabiting various forest types. The calling song consists of fast-pulsed chirps. The article includes figures and references for further study, making it a valuable resource for both laypersons and academic audiences interested in entomology. Published: January 1999.

thumbnail for publication: A Cockroach Egg Parasitoid, Evania appendigaster (Linnaeus) (Hymenoptera: Evaniidae)

A Cockroach Egg Parasitoid, Evania appendigaster (Linnaeus) (Hymenoptera: Evaniidae)

Lionel A. Stange

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Integrated Pest Management. This document provides an in-depth profile of the cockroach egg parasitoid, Evania appendigaster (Linnaeus), detailing its identification, distribution, biology, and potential for biological control. Originating from the Orient, this wasp is now widespread in tropical and subtropical regions. It parasitizes cockroach egg cases, with the female inserting her ovipositor into the egg case to lay a single egg. The developing larva consumes all the cockroach eggs within the case. The document also discusses the wasp's competitors and its potential effectiveness in controlling cockroach populations.

thumbnail for publication: Yellowstriped Armyworm, Spodoptera ornithogalli (Guenée) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Yellowstriped Armyworm, Spodoptera ornithogalli (Guenée) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

John L. Capinera yJohn L. Capinera
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids, and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. The yellowstriped armyworm (Spodoptera ornithogalli) is a common pest in the southeastern U.S., with a distribution extending from southern Canada to South America and the Caribbean. It undergoes three to four generations annually, with eggs laid in clusters and larvae initially gregarious before pupating in the soil. The larvae, which have variable coloration and distinct markings, feed on a wide range of crops and weeds, causing significant foliage damage. Natural enemies include various parasitoids and a nuclear polyhedrosis virus. Published: July 2001. 

thumbnail for publication: Cowpea Curculio, Chalcodermus aeneus Boheman (Insecta: Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Cowpea Curculio, Chalcodermus aeneus Boheman (Insecta: Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

John L. Capinera

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the cowpea curculio, Chalcodermus aeneus Boheman, focusing on its distribution, life cycle, host plants, damage caused, natural enemies, and management strategies. The cowpea curculio primarily affects legumes in the southeastern United States, with significant damage to cowpea crops. The article details the insect's biology, including its overwintering habits, egg-laying process, larval development, and pupation. It also discusses various control methods, including insecticides, cultural practices, and biological control, highlighting the challenges in managing this pest effectively. Published: August 2001.

thumbnail for publication: Brown Lacewings (of Florida) (Insecta: Neuroptera: Hemerobiidae)

Brown Lacewings (of Florida) (Insecta: Neuroptera: Hemerobiidae)

Ellis G. MacLeod, Lionel Stange, yLionel A. Stange
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Integrated Pest Management. This document provides an in-depth profile of brown lacewings (Neuroptera: Hemerobiidae) in Florida, detailing their distribution, biology, identification, and role as biological control agents. Brown lacewings are predaceous insects that primarily feed on aphids and other soft-bodied pests. The article includes identification keys for adults and larvae, discusses their life cycle, and highlights their effectiveness in pest management. It also covers the various species found in Florida and their specific habitats, contributing valuable information for both academic and practical applications in entomology. Published: August 2001.

thumbnail for publication: American Serpentine Leafminer, Liriomyza trifolii (Burgess) (Insecta: Diptera: Agromyzidae)

American Serpentine Leafminer, Liriomyza trifolii (Burgess) (Insecta: Diptera: Agromyzidae)

John L. Capinera

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document profiles the American serpentine leafminer, Liriomyza trifolii, detailing its life cycle, physical characteristics, and ecological impact. Native to the eastern United States, this pest has spread globally, affecting greenhouse and vegetable crops. The article covers its host plants, damage caused by leaf mining, and natural enemies, including parasitoids. Management strategies such as sampling, insecticides, biological control, and cultural practices are discussed to mitigate its impact. The document is part of the UF/IFAS Extension's Featured Creatures collection, aimed at both laypersons and academic audiences interested in entomology. 

thumbnail for publication: An Asian Citrus Psyllid Parasitoid: Diaphorencyrtus aligarhensis (Shafee, Alam and Agarwal) (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae)

An Asian Citrus Psyllid Parasitoid: Diaphorencyrtus aligarhensis (Shafee, Alam and Agarwal) (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae)

Eric Rohrig

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Integrated Pest Management. This document provides an in-depth profile of the eastern black swallowtail butterfly, Papilio polyxenes asterius. It covers its distribution, physical description, life cycle, natural enemies, defenses, host plants, and economic importance. The butterfly is found throughout southern Canada, the eastern and mid-western United States, and northern Mexico. It is admired for its beauty but can occasionally be a pest. The document includes identification keys and discusses management strategies for controlling the butterfly in home gardens. Original publication date November 2011.

thumbnail for publication: Question Mark Polygonia interrogationis (Fabricius) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Nymphalinae)

Question Mark Polygonia interrogationis (Fabricius) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Nymphalinae)

Donald W. Hall

The question mark is a common, medium-sized butterfly of wooded areas and suburbs that is often, but not always, associated with moist areas. With its wings folded, it resembles a dead leaf and is highly cryptic. This document provides an in-depth profile of the question mark butterfly, Polygonia interrogationis, detailing its distribution, physical characteristics, life cycle, and natural enemies. Found throughout the eastern United States and southern Canada, this butterfly is known for its cryptic appearance resembling a dead leaf. The article describes the butterfly's distinct wing patterns, larval hosts, and feeding habits. It also highlights the butterfly's interactions with predators and parasitoids, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of its biology and ecology. Original publication date November 2011. 

thumbnail for publication: Cloudless Sulphur Phoebis sennae (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Pieridae: Coliadinae)

Cloudless Sulphur Phoebis sennae (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Pieridae: Coliadinae)

Donald W. Hall, Thomas J. Walker, yMarc C. Minno
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids, and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the cloudless sulphur butterfly, Phoebis sennae, focusing on its distribution, physical characteristics, life cycle, migration patterns, host plants, and natural enemies. The butterfly is widespread in the southern United States and migrates seasonally. Detailed descriptions of its various life stages, including eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults, are provided. The document also discusses the butterfly's interactions with host plants and predators, emphasizing its ecological significance and the factors affecting its population dynamics. Original publication date April 2012. 

thumbnail for publication: Tree Squirrel Bot Fly, Cuterebra emasculator Fitch (Insecta: Diptera: Oestridae)

Tree Squirrel Bot Fly, Cuterebra emasculator Fitch (Insecta: Diptera: Oestridae)

Jordan Taheri, Phillip E. Kaufman, yFrank Slansky
Otros contactos: Elena M. Rhodes

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the tree squirrel bot fly, Cuterebra emasculator Fitch, detailing its taxonomy, distribution, physical characteristics, life cycle, host range, and impact on hosts. The bot fly is an obligate parasite of tree squirrels and chipmunks in eastern North America, causing noticeable swellings known as warbles. The document also discusses the bot fly's behavior, infestation symptoms, and treatment options, emphasizing its role in the ecosystem and interactions with humans. Original publication date November 2007.