Sandipa Gautam - CE Area Citrus IPM Advisor
The citrus entomology lab focuses on research and extension on arthropod pests affecting citrus crop grown in the San Joaquin Valley. The goal of the program is to develop contemporary and sustainable pest management strategies for growers. This is accomplished by conducting laboratory, greenhouse, and field studies for the development, evaluation, and adoption of integrated pest management methods for insects and mites in citrus systems. Key pests of concern include citrus thrips, California red scale, citrus mealybug, and Asian citrus psyllid. The current focus of the program is studying the seasonal phenology of an emerging pest citrus mealybug, screening pesticide efficacies for key citrus pests, testing pests for pesticide resistance and resistance management strategies, and developing postharvest control methods for pests of export concern. Additionally, our lab organizes extension and outreach events to educate on IPM strategies targeted for citrus growers, pest control advisors and field scouts. For more information please visit https://lrec.ucanr.edu/Citrus_IPM/#
