Quick Summary
The redbay ambrosia beetle (Xyleborus glabratus) bore into trees of the laurel family, such as redbay, sassafras, pondspice, bay laurel, and avocado. These beetles spread a fungus (Raffaelea lauricola), causing Laurel Wilt.
This disease is currently NOT found in California, and is presently limited to Southern states, however, the transportation of firewood is a threat to increasing its distribution, risking California avocados.
redbay ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus glabratus
Michael C. Thomas, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bugwood.org
What to look for:
- Wilted green leaves are an early symptom
- Leaves turn brown soon after leaves wilt. Brown leaves can remain attached for up to a year
- Stem and limb die back
- Eventual tree mortality
- Small holes with sawdust tubes (similar to toothpicks), where ambrosia beetles bore into the tree
redbay ambrosia beetle damage, sawdust, toothpick-like tubes from beetle exit holes
Photo by James Johnson, Georgia Forestry Commission, Bugwood.org
The current distribution map of this pest can be found here.
More Information and Resources:
UCCE Ventura County: The Latest on Florida’s LW Disease
USDA National Invasive Species Information Center. Microbes: Species Profiles- Laurel Wilt