The Center for Invasive Species Research
Every 60 days, California gains a new and potentially damaging exotic species. The unique and highly varied climate and geography of California presents diverse ecosytems (natural, urban, and agricultural) of which many are perfect for a myriad of new pests to establish and develop damaging populations. California estimates it's economic loses to invasive species to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars each year. The Center for Invasive Species Research aims to develop a systematic methodology for dealing with unwanted invasive species in four ways: risk assessment, early detection, and rapid development of control and eradication measures. Management and suppression of noxious invasive pests are conducted via biological, microbial, genetic, and chemical practices. Applied research is carried out to determine how unwanted pests enter California, from where in the world these invading populations originate, and the reasons behind invasive species success and failure in establishing a residence in California are investigaged. Learn more about the CISR program
The Light Brown Apple Moth (LBAM)
In March 2007, the presence of LBAM was confirmed in California and shipments of plant material have been restricted from California to other states in the USA. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) considers LBAM to be a Class A pest and has implemented an eradication program which primarily involves mating disruption pheromones and insecticide... Read More
The Diaprepes Root Weevil
Diaprepes root weevil is a large colorful weevil with color forms that range from gray to yellow to orange and black. Diaprepes is originally from the Caribbean and was introduced into Florida in the 1960s. The larval stage feeds on roots and causes serious damage to ornamentals, citrus and a number of important agricultural crops. In 2000, Diaprepes was found in Texas, and in 2005 it was found... Read More
Saltcedar
Once established, saltcedar is tolerant to high salinity and secretes salt at a high rate which is deposited on the soil surface to the detriment of native plant species. Saltcedar increases fire frequency within the riparian habitats it dominates because of its high levels of dead leaves and branches that provide fuel for fires. After fires, saltcedar sprouts rigorously, while native riparian trees and shrubs generally... Read More