The palm leaf skeletonizer, Homaledra sabalella (Lepidoptera: Coleophoridae): status and potential pest management options

The present status of the palm leaf skeletonizer [Homaledra sabalella (Lepidoptera: Coleophoridae)] in Florida and Puerto Rico is discussed. This insect is native to both localities, where its natural hosts are native palms, especially Sabal palmetto in Florida and S. causiarum in Puerto Rico. A complex of natural enemies is associated with it, historically maintaining a satisfactory natural control. In the 1990s, unprecedented outbreaks in both localities of an insect identified as H. sabalella occurred on coconut palms (Cocos nucifera), which was previously considered a marginal host of this... Mehr ...