While the insect’s identity is yet to be confirmed, experts suspect it to be the Red Gum Lerp Psyllid (Glycaspis brimblecombei) that attacks Eucalyptus trees. The SA forestry industry already loses about R200 million of wood annually as a result of pests and diseases. If the identity is confirmed as Glycaspis, local forestry experts will immediately begin developing control measures.
Read the full story in the 10 August 2012 issue of FWSA.