Laurel wilt

Photo by Andrew Geering, DEEDI Qld

Emerging fungal disease of avocado trees in Florida
Spread by the tiny (2 mm long) Redbay ambrosia beetle (exotic)
Leaves wilt and foliage drop may follow
Xylem tissue becomes dark brown or black
Dying trees attract beetles in large numbers and small strings of wood fibre may be seen protruding from bore holes

High priority pest of: Avocados

Scientific name: Raffaelea lauricola
EPPRD Category:
Life Form: Fungus