Culicoides paraensis, (Insecta: Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), Vector of Oropouche Virus Nathan Burkett-Cadena. This publication provides an in-depth profile of Culicoides paraensis Goeldi (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae). These biting midges, sometimes called sand flies and no-see-ums, live throughout forested areas of North and South America. Culicoides paraensis bites people and could transmit a human pathogen. Benefits of Mixed Cultivar [&#8230;]

<h3><a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1451">Culicoides paraensis, (Insecta: Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), Vector of Oropouche Virus</a></h3>
Nathan Burkett-Cadena. 
This publication provides an in-depth profile of Culicoides paraensis Goeldi (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae). These biting midges, sometimes called sand flies and no-see-ums, live throughout forested areas of North and South America. Culicoides paraensis bites people and could transmit a human pathogen.
<h3><a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1454">Benefits of Mixed Cultivar Plantings for Cross-Pollination in Blueberry: A Guide to Maximize Yields </a></h3>
Clement Larue, Stan Chabert, Doug Phillips, Rachel E. Mallinger. 
Provides Florida blueberry growers information on the benefits of cross-pollination in southern highbush blueberry production systems. Also presents advice on how to plant a highly productive orchard optimized for cross-pollination and fruit production.
<h3><a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1450">The Predatory Mite Amblyseius tamatavensis (Blommers) (Acari: Phytoseiidae)</a></h3>
Hannah R. Talton, Maria A. Canon, Amanda C. Hodges, Hugh A. Smith, Alexandra M. Revynthi. 
The predatory mite Amblyseius tamatavensis (Blommers) belongs to the order Mesostigmata and the family Phytoseiidae. This important family includes commercially available biological control agents and natural enemies of plant-feeding mites and small, soft-bodied insects. A. tamatavensis, a generalist predatory mite, thrives in many cropping systems. It feeds on small hemipteran insects and pollen when prey is not present.
<h3><a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1328">The Hibiscus Bud Weevil (Anthonomus testaceosquamosus Linell, Coleoptera: Curculionidae)</a></h3>
Alexandra M Revynthi, Yisell Velazquez- Hernandez; Juleysy Rodriguez (Contributor); Paul E. Kendra; Daniel Carrillo (Contributor); Catharine M Mannion. 
The hibiscus bud weevil (Anthonomus testaceosquamosus Linell, Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a key insect pest of China rose hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L., Malvales: Malvaceae). Ornamental nursery growers report increased weevil population densities in Homestead nurseries in 2019 and 2020. They report the weevil harmed the hibiscus industry in south Florida during the spring shipping period, resulting in large economic losses.
<h3><a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1449">Florida’s Bee Species of Greatest Conservation Need </a></h3>
Walker Bensch, Rachel Mallinger. 
Raising public awareness about Florida&#8217;s diverse bees and their fascinating life histories. Synthesizes current information on each bee species for quick reference by researchers and land managers interested in efforts to conserve these species.
<h3><a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1455">The Updated Seed Testing Rule for Lettuce mosaic virus in Florida </a></h3>
De-Fen Mou, Germán V. Sandoya, Anna Mészáros, Ozgur Batuman, Trevor Smith.
Explains the updated Florida seed certification requirement for lettuce mosaic virus (LMV). Florida mandates that all lettuce seeds sold and used in the state must be tested and certified as LMV-free (i.e., zero infected seed per 30,000 tested for LMV). Provides information to state and county Extension faculty, crop consultants, current and potential lettuce producers, seed companies, and home gardeners who grow lettuce in Florida.
<h3><a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1146">New World Screwworm Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Insecta: Diptera: Calliphoridae)</a></h3>
Edwin R. Burgess, Samantha M. Wisely. 
The New World screwworm (NWS), Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), also known as the primary screwworm, Gusano Barrenador del Ganado (GBG), or cattle bore worm, is the only parasitic representative of the genus Cochliomyia.  Historical losses to the United States livestock industry, as well as its threat to wildlife, companion animals, and humans, incentivized an eradication program beginning in the 1950s and using a process called Sterile Insect Technique (SIT).

Culicoides paraensis, (Insecta: Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), Vector of Oropouche Virus
Nathan Burkett-Cadena. 
This publication provides an in-depth profile of Culicoides paraensis Goeldi (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae). These biting midges, sometimes called sand flies and no-see-ums, live throughout forested areas of North and South America. Culicoides paraensis bites people and could transmit a human pathogen.
Benefits of Mixed Cultivar Plantings for Cross-Pollination in Blueberry: A Guide to Maximize Yields 
Clement Larue, Stan Chabert, Doug Phillips, Rachel E. Mallinger. 
Provides Florida blueberry growers information on the benefits of cross-pollination in southern highbush blueberry production systems. Also presents advice on how to plant a highly productive orchard optimized for cross-pollination and fruit production.
The Predatory Mite Amblyseius tamatavensis (Blommers) (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Hannah R. Talton, Maria A. Canon, Amanda C. Hodges, Hugh A. Smith, Alexandra M. Revynthi. 
The predatory mite Amblyseius tamatavensis (Blommers) belongs to the order Mesostigmata and the family Phytoseiidae. This important family includes commercially available biological control agents and natural enemies of plant-feeding mites and small, soft-bodied insects. A. tamatavensis, a generalist predatory mite, thrives in many cropping systems. It feeds on small hemipteran insects and pollen when prey is not present.
The Hibiscus Bud Weevil (Anthonomus testaceosquamosus Linell, Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Alexandra M Revynthi, Yisell Velazquez- Hernandez; Juleysy Rodriguez (Contributor); Paul E. Kendra; Daniel Carrillo (Contributor); Catharine M Mannion. 
The hibiscus bud weevil (Anthonomus testaceosquamosus Linell, Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a key insect pest of China rose hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L., Malvales: Malvaceae). Ornamental nursery growers report increased weevil population densities in Homestead nurseries in 2019 and 2020. They report the weevil harmed the hibiscus industry in south Florida during the spring shipping period, resulting in large economic losses.
Florida’s Bee Species of Greatest Conservation Need 
Walker Bensch, Rachel Mallinger. 
Raising public awareness about Florida’s diverse bees and their fascinating life histories. Synthesizes current information on each bee species for quick reference by researchers and land managers interested in efforts to conserve these species.
The Updated Seed Testing Rule for Lettuce mosaic virus in Florida 
De-Fen Mou, Germán V. Sandoya, Anna Mészáros, Ozgur Batuman, Trevor Smith.
Explains the updated Florida seed certification requirement for lettuce mosaic virus (LMV). Florida mandates that all lettuce seeds sold and used in the state must be tested and certified as LMV-free (i.e., zero infected seed per 30,000 tested for LMV). Provides information to state and county Extension faculty, crop consultants, current and potential lettuce producers, seed companies, and home gardeners who grow lettuce in Florida.
New World Screwworm Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Insecta: Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Edwin R. Burgess, Samantha M. Wisely. 
The New World screwworm (NWS), Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), also known as the primary screwworm, Gusano Barrenador del Ganado (GBG), or cattle bore worm, is the only parasitic representative of the genus Cochliomyia.  Historical losses to the United States livestock industry, as well as its threat to wildlife, companion animals, and humans, incentivized an eradication program beginning in the 1950s and using a process called Sterile Insect Technique (SIT).

Culicoides paraensis, (Insecta: Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), Vector of Oropouche Virus Nathan Burkett-Cadena. This publication provides an in-depth profile of Culicoides paraensis Goeldi (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae). These biting midges, sometimes called sand flies and no-see-ums, live throughout forested areas of North and South America. Culicoides paraensis bites people and could transmit a human pathogen. Benefits of Mixed Cultivar […]

What’s New on Ask IFAS: Entomology and Nematology (Sept. – Oct.)

For much of the early to mid-1900s, Florida cattle ranchers faced a persistent adversary: the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax). This pest, a flesh-eating fly, was infamous for its ability to cause devastating losses across livestock herds. Infected animals often suffered from painful, festering wounds, and without treatment, infestations could become fatal. After decades of [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_1575" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1575" style="width: 506px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-1575" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/hardeeco/files/2024/09/GrwngFrwrd-DyllanandJonaelCattle001-300x200.jpg" alt="Florida Cracker cattle herd. Zolfo Springs, FL. Picture Credit: Tyler Lenin, University of Florida." width="506" height="337" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1575" class="wp-caption-text">Florida Cracker cattle herd. Zolfo Springs, FL. Picture Credit: Tyler Lenin, University of Florida.</figcaption></figure>
For much of the early to mid-1900s, Florida cattle ranchers faced a persistent adversary: the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax). This pest, a flesh-eating fly, was infamous for its ability to cause devastating losses across livestock herds. Infected animals often suffered from painful, festering wounds, and without treatment, infestations could become fatal. After decades of hard work and collaboration between producers, universities, and government agencies, the United States was successful in eradicating of the screwworm in the 1960s. For more than half a century, Florida’s cattle industry has benefitted from this achievement. But recent developments in Central America remind us that this old enemy has not disappeared—it is simply waiting for the right opportunity to gain back the ground it had lost decades ago.
&nbsp;
<h2></h2>
<h2>What makes the New World Screwworm a different foe?</h2>
The screwworm is unlike most ectoparasites encountered in U.S. livestock operations. While other flies feed on secretions or decaying matter, female screwworm flies seek out open wounds on warm-blooded animals. Once found, they deposit their eggs, which quickly hatch into larvae (12-24 hours after laid). These larvae, for the next 5-7 days, will consume living tissue, leaving animals in extreme distress. Infested wounds attract additional flies, escalating the problem by providing ideal conditions for secondary infections to occur, which sometimes lead to death if untreated. In addition to cattle, screwworm infestations threaten other livestock, deer, and even pets, creating a wide host range of concerns. Historically, the fly’s range stretched from South America through Central America, but the mentioned eradication efforts confined it to regions south of the Panama Canal. If the pest crosses into Florida, the negative impact could reach both ranching operations and native wildlife populations.
&nbsp;
<h2>Recent Screwworm Encounters: Florida Keys Outbreak </h2>
Florida recently faced a sobering reminder of this risk less than a decade ago. In 2016, screwworm was detecte
<figure id="attachment_2155" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2155" style="width: 439px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-2155" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/hardeeco/files/2025/09/adult-screwworm-300x180.jpg" alt="" width="439" height="264" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2155" class="wp-caption-text">Adult screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel). Note the dark stripes across the backline (thorax) of the fly behind the head. Picture Credit: Judy Gallagher.</figcaption></figure>
d in the Florida Keys, primarily affecting the endangered Key Deer population (origin of this outbreak is thought to be from endemic populations that still reside in Cuba). More than 130 of these endangered deer (15% of the total population) were lost before authorities launched an aggressive response that included animal inspections, veterinary treatment, and the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT). Through quick action and strong (but costly) coordination between state and federal agencies, the outbreak was contained and eliminated by 2017. That event proved how expensive and disruptive even a small introduction can be, and how vital preparedness remains for Florida cattle producers.
&nbsp;
<h2>A Breach in Containment </h2>
Fast forwarding to early 2025, news broke that the screwworm had escaped its long-standing containment zone south of Panama. This event alarmed agricultural authorities, as the zone has served as the last line of defense for decades. Experts attribute the outbreak to several factors: One possible cause is a lapse in the sterile insect release program, which relies on a continuous stream of sterilized male flies to keep populations in check. Additionally, the movement of untreated livestock across borders may have carried infestations into new areas. Changing weather patterns, particularly warmer and wetter conditions, may also play a role in creating favorable environments for screwworm survival. Whatever the cause, the appearance of this pest outside of its expected range is a stark reminder that Florida is not immune to its reintroduction.
<h2>Combatting Screwworm with Technology</h2>
The United States has a powerful tool in its arsenal: the Sterile Insect
<figure style="width: 412px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" class="" src="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/image/IN1146/D6epenrlac/Dd93t82pet/Dd93t82pet-2048.webp" alt="Figure 2. Larval primary screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel)." width="412" height="279" /><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Larval primary screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel). Picture Credit: Heather Stockdale Walden, University of Florida.</figcaption></figure>
Technique. This method, developed in the mid-20th century, involves releasing millions of sterilized male screwworm flies into the environment. These males compete with fertile males to mate with wild females, but their offspring never hatch. Over time, the population collapses. SIT was central to the original eradication campaign and was successfully deployed again during the 2016–2017 Florida Keys outbreak. However, if screwworm populations were to establish themselves again in Florida on a larger scale, eradication would be costly, disruptive, and time-consuming. The economic toll on cattle producers could be staggering, and the ecological impacts on wildlife, such as deer herds, could be equally devastating.
&nbsp;
<h2>Be Ready, be Vigilant</h2>
For now, the good news is that New World screwworm has NOT been reported in the United States, including Florida. That said, preparation is key. Cattle producers should regularly inspect their animals for wounds that do not heal or that appear to worsen despite treatment. Early detection is critical, as infestations can spread rapidly. Community members also play an important role. Pet owners should be attentive to injuries in dogs, cats, or horses, and hunters should report any suspicious wounds on wildlife. Suspicious cases should be immediately reported to the <a href="https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Animal-Pests-and-Diseases/New-World-Screwworm">Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS),</a> or a local veterinarian. Just as importantly, producers should avoid moving animals without veterinary oversight, since the transport of untreated livestock is one of the fastest ways pests can spread.
<figure id="attachment_444" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-444" style="width: 420px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-444" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/hardeeco/files/2018/01/Picture13-300x182.png" alt="" width="420" height="255" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-444" class="wp-caption-text">Wild populations of deer and other warm-blooded animals can suffer the impacts of New World Screwworm. Picture credit: Jonael Bosques, UF/IFAS Extension Hardee County.</figcaption></figure>
<h2>Protecting the herd and our wildlife</h2>
Florida’s cattle industry is one of the largest in the U.S. Our state’s thriving cattle industry is tied to the health of its herds. Protecting that success requires awareness, cooperation, and swift action towards environmental threats. While the New World screwworm has not yet crossed into U.S. borders, the recent outbreak south of Panama, and the Florida Keys incident just a few years ago are reminders that complacency is not an option. In cooperation, we can prevent the return of a pest that once caused so much harm to Florida’s livestock.
For further questions or guidance on this topic, contact UF/IFAS Extension Hardee County at (863) 773-2164 or visit our office at 507 Civic Center Drive, Wauchula, FL. Your Extension team is here to help protect your herds, your livelihoods, and your community through the power of science-based education.
&nbsp;
<h2>Keep learning</h2>
<a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1146">EENY-668/IN1146: Primary Screwworm Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Insecta: Diptera: Calliphoridae)</a>
<a href="https://asm.org/articles/2025/september/new-word-screwworm-rise-fall-resurgence#:~:text=As%20a%20result%2C%20North%20and,of%20the%20gap%27s%20difficult%20geography.">New World Screwworm: Rise, Fall and Resurgence</a>
<a href="https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Animal-Pests-and-Diseases/New-World-Screwworm">https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Animal-Pests-and-Diseases/New-World-Screwworm</a>
<a href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2025/08/15/usda-announces-sweeping-plans-protect-united-states-new-world-screwworm">USDA Announces Sweeping Plans to Protect the United States from New World Screwworm | USDA</a>

Florida Cracker cattle herd. Zolfo Springs, FL. Picture Credit: Tyler Lenin, University of Florida.
For much of the early to mid-1900s, Florida cattle ranchers faced a persistent adversary: the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax). This pest, a flesh-eating fly, was infamous for its ability to cause devastating losses across livestock herds. Infected animals often suffered from painful, festering wounds, and without treatment, infestations could become fatal. After decades of hard work and collaboration between producers, universities, and government agencies, the United States was successful in eradicating of the screwworm in the 1960s. For more than half a century, Florida’s cattle industry has benefitted from this achievement. But recent developments in Central America remind us that this old enemy has not disappeared—it is simply waiting for the right opportunity to gain back the ground it had lost decades ago.
 

What makes the New World Screwworm a different foe?
The screwworm is unlike most ectoparasites encountered in U.S. livestock operations. While other flies feed on secretions or decaying matter, female screwworm flies seek out open wounds on warm-blooded animals. Once found, they deposit their eggs, which quickly hatch into larvae (12-24 hours after laid). These larvae, for the next 5-7 days, will consume living tissue, leaving animals in extreme distress. Infested wounds attract additional flies, escalating the problem by providing ideal conditions for secondary infections to occur, which sometimes lead to death if untreated. In addition to cattle, screwworm infestations threaten other livestock, deer, and even pets, creating a wide host range of concerns. Historically, the fly’s range stretched from South America through Central America, but the mentioned eradication efforts confined it to regions south of the Panama Canal. If the pest crosses into Florida, the negative impact could reach both ranching operations and native wildlife populations.
 
Recent Screwworm Encounters: Florida Keys Outbreak 
Florida recently faced a sobering reminder of this risk less than a decade ago. In 2016, screwworm was detecte
Adult screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel). Note the dark stripes across the backline (thorax) of the fly behind the head.
Picture Credit: Judy Gallagher.
d in the Florida Keys, primarily affecting the endangered Key Deer population (origin of this outbreak is thought to be from endemic populations that still reside in Cuba). More than 130 of these endangered deer (15% of the total population) were lost before authorities launched an aggressive response that included animal inspections, veterinary treatment, and the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT). Through quick action and strong (but costly) coordination between state and federal agencies, the outbreak was contained and eliminated by 2017. That event proved how expensive and disruptive even a small introduction can be, and how vital preparedness remains for Florida cattle producers.
 
A Breach in Containment 
Fast forwarding to early 2025, news broke that the screwworm had escaped its long-standing containment zone south of Panama. This event alarmed agricultural authorities, as the zone has served as the last line of defense for decades. Experts attribute the outbreak to several factors: One possible cause is a lapse in the sterile insect release program, which relies on a continuous stream of sterilized male flies to keep populations in check. Additionally, the movement of untreated livestock across borders may have carried infestations into new areas. Changing weather patterns, particularly warmer and wetter conditions, may also play a role in creating favorable environments for screwworm survival. Whatever the cause, the appearance of this pest outside of its expected range is a stark reminder that Florida is not immune to its reintroduction.
Combatting Screwworm with Technology
The United States has a powerful tool in its arsenal: the Sterile Insect
Larval primary screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel). Picture Credit: Heather Stockdale Walden, University of Florida.
Technique. This method, developed in the mid-20th century, involves releasing millions of sterilized male screwworm flies into the environment. These males compete with fertile males to mate with wild females, but their offspring never hatch. Over time, the population collapses. SIT was central to the original eradication campaign and was successfully deployed again during the 2016–2017 Florida Keys outbreak. However, if screwworm populations were to establish themselves again in Florida on a larger scale, eradication would be costly, disruptive, and time-consuming. The economic toll on cattle producers could be staggering, and the ecological impacts on wildlife, such as deer herds, could be equally devastating.
 
Be Ready, be Vigilant
For now, the good news is that New World screwworm has NOT been reported in the United States, including Florida. That said, preparation is key. Cattle producers should regularly inspect their animals for wounds that do not heal or that appear to worsen despite treatment. Early detection is critical, as infestations can spread rapidly. Community members also play an important role. Pet owners should be attentive to injuries in dogs, cats, or horses, and hunters should report any suspicious wounds on wildlife. Suspicious cases should be immediately reported to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), or a local veterinarian. Just as importantly, producers should avoid moving animals without veterinary oversight, since the transport of untreated livestock is one of the fastest ways pests can spread.
Wild populations of deer and other warm-blooded animals can suffer the impacts of New World Screwworm. Picture credit: Jonael Bosques, UF/IFAS Extension Hardee County.
Protecting the herd and our wildlife
Florida’s cattle industry is one of the largest in the U.S. Our state’s thriving cattle industry is tied to the health of its herds. Protecting that success requires awareness, cooperation, and swift action towards environmental threats. While the New World screwworm has not yet crossed into U.S. borders, the recent outbreak south of Panama, and the Florida Keys incident just a few years ago are reminders that complacency is not an option. In cooperation, we can prevent the return of a pest that once caused so much harm to Florida’s livestock.
For further questions or guidance on this topic, contact UF/IFAS Extension Hardee County at (863) 773-2164 or visit our office at 507 Civic Center Drive, Wauchula, FL. Your Extension team is here to help protect your herds, your livelihoods, and your community through the power of science-based education.
 
Keep learning
EENY-668/IN1146: Primary Screwworm Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Insecta: Diptera: Calliphoridae)
New World Screwworm: Rise, Fall and Resurgence
https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Animal-Pests-and-Diseases/New-World-Screwworm
USDA Announces Sweeping Plans to Protect the United States from New World Screwworm | USDA

For much of the early to mid-1900s, Florida cattle ranchers faced a persistent adversary: the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax). This pest, a flesh-eating fly, was infamous for its ability to cause devastating losses across livestock herds. Infected animals often suffered from painful, festering wounds, and without treatment, infestations could become fatal. After decades of […]

An Old Enemy in the Horizon: New World Screwworm in Sight

In light of the spread of the New World screwworm across Central America and into Mexico, with the potential to reach the U.S., the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) will host an informational webinar about the pest, the status of the outbreak and how to detect and report cases. The [&#8230;]

In light of the spread of the New World screwworm across Central America and into Mexico, with the potential to reach the U.S., the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) will host an informational webinar about the pest, the status of the outbreak and how to detect and report cases.
The New World screwworm is a maggot that feeds on the wounds of live animals and can sometimes infect humans. The webinar will review the basics of this outbreak for agricultural industry professionals, livestock producers, public health professionals and other interested parties.
The primary focus of the webinar will be on monitoring, reporting cases and protecting animals. The webinar will be hosted by Andrew Short, chair of the UF/IFAS Department of Entomology and Nematology.
Registration is not required, and this webinar will be recorded.
When: Sept. 17 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Update: The <a href="https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/notes/NWSWebinarSept2025.mp4">recording can be found here</a>.
###
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
ABOUT UF/IFAS 
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
<a href="http://www.ifas.ufl.edu">ifas.ufl.edu</a>  |  <a href="https://twitter.com/UF_IFAS">@UF_IFAS</a>

In light of the spread of the New World screwworm across Central America and into Mexico, with the potential to reach the U.S., the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) will host an informational webinar about the pest, the status of the outbreak and how to detect and report cases.
The New World screwworm is a maggot that feeds on the wounds of live animals and can sometimes infect humans. The webinar will review the basics of this outbreak for agricultural industry professionals, livestock producers, public health professionals and other interested parties.
The primary focus of the webinar will be on monitoring, reporting cases and protecting animals. The webinar will be hosted by Andrew Short, chair of the UF/IFAS Department of Entomology and Nematology.
Registration is not required, and this webinar will be recorded.
When: Sept. 17 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Update: The recording can be found here.
###
 
 
ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
ifas.ufl.edu  |  @UF_IFAS

In light of the spread of the New World screwworm across Central America and into Mexico, with the potential to reach the U.S., the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) will host an informational webinar about the pest, the status of the outbreak and how to detect and report cases. The […]

New World screwworm webinar to educate agriculture, healthcare professionals on reporting, monitoring

Please refer to the UF/IFAS <a href="https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/nws/">New World Screwworm page</a> for the&nbsp;latest developments, specialist-reviewed materials, the latest science-based information, and resources related to New World Screwworm (NWS) in Florida.

Invasive Invertebrates

Calliphoridae

Family: Calliphoridae

The New World screwworm (NWS) is a type of fly whose larvae (maggots) feed exclusively on the living tissues of warm-blooded animals. UF/IFAS is monitoring the spread of NWS and providing resources for livestock managers, veterinarians, wildlife officials, and community leaders across Florida. Please go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/nws/">UF/IFAS New World Screwworm website</a> for access to materials and science-based resources that may not be available on this site.
Any suspected cases of New World screwworm in Florida should be immediately reported to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fdacs.gov/NWS">FDACS</a>.

Short, Andrew

New World Screwworm (NWS)

3557-thumbnail

The Department of Entomology and Nematology maintains tripartite priorities consistent with the mandate given to full-service landgrant universities and associated experiment stations: <a href="https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/research-areas/department-research-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Research</a>, <a href="http://entomology.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Extension</a>, and <a href="https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/academic-programs/academics-directory/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Academics</a>. These programs are facilitated with state funding, extramural contract and grant funding, donations and gifts, and the collaborative efforts of cooperating agencies and institutions. The Department has coordinated faculty efforts and strengths into what could be considered major thrust areas for the Department. These areas of emphasis include: Behavior, Ecology, and Systematics; Biological Control; Medical, Veterinary and Urban Entomology; Nematology; Pest Management; and Physiology, Biochemistry, and Genetics.

New World Screwworm (NWS)

Publications

New World Screwworm Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Insecta: Diptera: Calliphoridae)

What’s New on Ask IFAS: Entomology and Nematology (Sept. – Oct.)

An Old Enemy in the Horizon: New World Screwworm in Sight

New World screwworm webinar to educate agriculture, healthcare professionals on reporting, monitoring