Progress 10/01/11 to 09/30/12
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The mission of UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center is to protect the environment of South Florida by developing, in partnership with other institutions, technologies for sustainable maintenance and management of landscapes and to reduce the impact of invasive animals and plants on the area's natural and urban habitats. Preliminary investigations continue to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida in the areas of: 1) Aquatic and Wetlands Plant Management - invasive weeds, native plants; 2) Biological Control of Invasive Weeds and Invertebrates - with nematodes, insects and pathogens; 3) Landscape Environmental Horticulture - new plants, new management techniques; 4) Palm Management - nutrition, insects and diseases; 5) Turfgrass Management - golf courses, athletic fields, and home landscapes; 6) Urban Household Pests-termites, ants, cockroaches, and Africanized honey bees; 7) Wildlife Ecology and Conservation - Everglades ecological risk assessment and restoration and invasive species management. In 2011-2012, preliminary experiments were continued to determine the effect of fertilizer-N sources and rates on N leaching in St. Augustinegrass turfgrass systems and turfgrass quality by Dr. John Cisar's turfgrass management group. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. John Cisar of FLREC-UF-IFAS, Dr. Lyn Gettys of FLREC-UF-IFAS, Broward County Cooperative Extension Service,USDA-ARS Invasive Plant Research Laboratory, US Geological Survey, Broward County Environmental Protection Department, and the South Florida Education Center (Broward College, Florida Atlantic University, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, McFatter Technical Center, NSU, Town of Davie and UF). TARGET AUDIENCES: Citizens of the state of Florida and south Florida. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; geomatics; and wildlife ecology studies. Sustained research will lead to the following impacts: 1) sustainability, competitiveness, and profitability of south Florida horticultural systems; 2) adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change on landscape and wildlife systems in south Florida; 3) supporting energy security and development of the bio-economy from renewable natural resources in the U.S.; and 4) heightened environmental stewardship through the development of sustainable management practices and awareness. In 2011-2012, Dr. John Cisar's turfgrass management group demonstrated that rate of polymer-coated N did not affect N leaching. Turfgrass quality was improved by fertilization with N and remained about minimally-acceptable quality throughout the study period. Turfgrass quality was improved by several of the coated fertilization sources with N and remained about minimally-acceptable quality throughout the study period. Some of these experiments were highlighted at the FLREC IFAS turf field day in March of 2012. Dr. Lyn Gettys finished several projects that are not covered by her CRIS project concerning genetic control of flower color in scarlet rosemallow and the effects of herbicide-treated irrigation water on four garden vegetables.
Publications
- Orozco, Obando W, P Biles, LA Gettys, K Tilt, K Moore, FM Woods and D Tian. 2012. American lotus: more than just a pretty face. Aquatics 34(3):7-9.
- Orozco, Obando W, K Tilt, LA Gettys, FM Woods K Moore, and D Tian. 2012. The amazing American lotus (Nelumbo lutea Willd.). Water Garden Journal 27(3):16-21.
- Carey, RO, GJ Hochmuth, CJ Martinez, TH Boyer, VD Nair, MD Dukes, GS Toor, AL Shober, JL Cisar, LE Trenholm and JB Sartain. 2012. Regulatory and Resource Management Practices for Urban Watersheds: The Florida Experience. HortTechnology. 22,418-429.
- Gettys, LA, and WT Haller. 2012. Effect of herbicide-treated irrigation water on four garden vegetables. Weed Technology 26(2):272-278.
- Gettys, LA, WT Haller, E Hayes and K Thayer. 2012. Production of eelgrass sod for use in lake restoration projects. Aquatics 34(1)4-7.
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Progress 10/01/10 to 09/30/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The mission of UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center is to protect the environment of South Florida by developing, in partnership with other institutions, technologies for sustainable maintenance and management of landscapes and to reduce the impact of invasive animals and plants on the area's natural and urban habitats. Preliminary investigations continue to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida in the areas of: 1) Aquatic and Wetlands Plant Management - invasive weeds, native plants; 2) Biological Control of Invasive Weeds and Invertebrates - with nematodes, insects and pathogens; 3) Landscape Environmental Horticulture - new plants, new management techniques; 4) Palm Management - nutrition, insects and diseases; 5) Turfgrass Management - golf courses, athletic fields, and home landscapes; 6) Urban Household Pests-termites, ants, cockroaches, and Africanized honey bees; 7) Wildlife Ecology and Conservation - Everglades ecological risk assessment and restoration and invasive species management. In 2010-2011, preliminary experiments were conducted to determine the effect of fertilizer-N sources and rates on N leaching in St. Augustinegrass turfgrass systems and turfgrass quality by Dr. John Cisar's turfgrass management group. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. John Cisar of FLREC, UF-IFAS, Broward County Cooperative Extension Service,USDA-ARS Invasive Plant Research Laboratory, US Geological Survey, Broward County Environmental Protection Department, and the South Florida Education Center (BCC, Florida Atlantic University, McFatter Technical Center, NSU, Town of Davie and UF). TARGET AUDIENCES: Citizens of the state of Florida and south Florida. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; geomatics; and wildlife ecology studies. Sustained research will lead to the following impacts: 1) sustainability, competitiveness, and profitability of south Florida horticultural systems; 2) adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change on landscape and wildlife systems in south Florida; 3) supporting energy security and development of the bio-economy from renewable natural resources in the U.S.; and 4) heightened environmental stewardship through the development of sustainable management practices and awareness. In 2010-2011, Dr. John Cisar's turfgrass management group demonstrated that Polymer-coated urea leached N at rates below 3% of the amount applied. Rate of polymer-coated N did not affect N leaching. Turfgrass quality was improved by fertilization with N and remained about minimally-acceptable quality throughout the study period.
Publications
- McGroary, P. C., J. L. Cisar, G. H. Snyder, J. E. Erickson, S. H. Daroub, and J. B. Sartain. 2011. Water use of St. Augustinegrass and Bahiagrass under varying nitrogen rates. Agronomy Journal. 103:100-106.
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Progress 10/01/09 to 09/30/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The mission of UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center is to protect the environment of South Florida by developing, in partnership with other institutions, technologies for sustainable maintenance and management of landscapes and to reduce the impact of invasive animals and plants on the area's natural and urban habitats. Preliminary investigations continue to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida in the areas of : 1) Aquatic and Wetlands Plant Management - invasive weeds, native plants, 2) Biological Control of Invasive Weeds and Invertebrates - with nematodes, insects and pathogens, 3) Landscape Environmental Horticulture - new plants, new management techniques, 4)Palm Management - nutrition, insects, diseases, 5) Turfgrass Management - golf courses, athletic fields, landscapes, 6) Urban Household Pest - termites, ants, cockroaches, and Africanized honey bees, 7) Wildlife Ecology and Conservation - Everglades ecological risk assessment and restoration. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. John Cisar and Dr. Henry Hochmair of FLREC, UF-IFAS, Broward County Cooperative Extension Service, USDA-ARS Invasive Plant Research Laboratory, US Geological Survey, Broward County Environmental Protection Department, and the South Florida Education Center (BCC, Florida Atlantic University, McFatter Technical Center, NSU, Town of Davie and UF). TARGET AUDIENCES: Citizens of Florida and south Florida. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; geomatics; and wildlife ecology studies. Sustained research will lead to the following impacts; 1) sustainability, competitiveness, and profitability of south Florida horticultural systems, 2) adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change on landscape and wildlife systems in south Florida, 3) supporting energy security and development of the bio-economy from renewable natural resources in the U.S. and 4) heightened environmental stewardship through the development of sustainable management practices and awareness.
Publications
- Cisar JL, M. PD, Snyder GH, Williams KE. 2010. Effect of surfactant-amended fertilizer on turf quality. Proc. of the 2nd European Turfgrass Society Conference 2:64-6
- Erickson EJ, Park DM, Cisar JL, Snyder GH, Wright AL. 2010. Effects of sod type, irrigation and fertilization on nitrate-N and ortho-phosphate leaching from newly established St. Augustinegrass lawn. Crop Science 50:1030-6
- Hochmair H, Scheffrahn R. 2010. Spatial Association of Marine Dockage With Land-Borne Infestations of Invasive Termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae: Coptotermes) in Urban South Florida. Journal of Economic Entomology:1338-46
- Howard FW, Pemberton R, Schroer S, Hodges G. 2010. Paratachardina pseudolobata (Coccoidea: Kerriidae): bionomics in Florida. Florida Entomologist 93:1-7
- Rowland JH, Cisar JL, Snyder GH, Sartain JB, Wright AL, Erickson JE. 2010. Optimal nitrogen and potassium fertilization rates for establishment of warm-season putting greens. Agronomy Journal 112:1601-5
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Progress 10/01/07 to 09/30/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Preliminary investigations continue to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida. PARTICIPANTS: Not relevant to this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Not relevant to this project. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; geomatics; and wildlife ecology studies.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/06 to 09/30/07
Outputs
Preliminary investigations continue to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; geomatics; and wildlife ecology studies.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/05 to 09/30/06
Outputs
Preliminary investigations continued to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida. Ties were strenthened with our USDA/ARS, USGS, and Broward County Environmental Protection Department.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; and wildlife ecology studies.
Publications
- No publications reported in 2006.
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Progress 10/01/04 to 09/30/05
Outputs
Preliminary investigations continued to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida. Ties were strenthened with our USDA/ARS, USGS, and Broward County Environmental Protection Department. The Windstorm Mitigation facility was built and will be used for various projects at FLREC.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; and wildlife ecology studies.
Publications
- No publications Reported. 2005
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Progress 10/01/03 to 09/30/04
Outputs
Preliminary investigations continued to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida. Ties were strengthened with our USDA/ARS, USGS, and Broward Co. DPEP partners.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; and wildlife ecology studies.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/02 to 10/01/03
Outputs
Preliminary investigations continued to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida. Ties were strengthened with our USDA/ARS and USGS partners.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; and wildlife ecology studies.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/01 to 10/01/02
Outputs
Preliminary investigations continued to determine environmentally sound management practices for south Florida. Ties were strengtened with our USDA/ARS and USGS partners.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant protection; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; and wildlife ecology studies.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/00 to 10/01/01
Outputs
Preliminary investigations continued to determine environmentally sound management practices for South Florida. Ties were strengthened with our USDA/ARS and USGS partners.
Impacts
The 7.8 billion dollar "Restoration of South Florida" project will benefit from preliminary research conducted in the areas of ornamental plant production; golf course management; environmentally sound structural pest control; aquatic weeds and invasive plant management; and wildlife ecology studies.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/99 to 09/30/00
Outputs
Preliminary investigations continued to determine environmentally sound management practices for South Florida.
Impacts
South Florida is a highly urbanized population area of greater than 6 million people. Research is conducted in the areas of tropical ornamental plant production; turgrass production and management; crop protection from diseases, insects, and weeds of ornamentals and turf; structural pest management; invasive plant management; and wetland mitigation and revegetation. It is necessary to develop cost-effective site-specific best management practices to increase profitability and sustainability while reducing environmental impacts.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/98 to 09/30/99
Outputs
Preliminary investigations into efficacious methods to manage palmetto weevil on Canary Island date palms were initiated. Several residual insecticides and one systemic product are currently being screened for weevil mortality. Preliminary investigations also were conducted to determine environmentally sound turfgrass fertility management practices.
Impacts
South Florida ia a highly urbanized population area of greater than 6 million people. Research is conducted in the areas of tropical ornamental plant production; turfgrass production and management; crop protection from diseases, insects, and weeds of ornamentals and turf; structural pest management; invasive plant management; and wetland mitigation and revegetation. It is necessary to develop cost-effective site-specific best management practices to increase profitability and sustainability while reducing environmental impacts.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/96 to 09/30/97
Outputs
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were used to confirm phytoplasma infection of Gliricidia sepium tress showing symptoms of little leaf disease in Central America. Phytoplasmas were detected in 70/147 (47.6 percent) of foliage samples upon assessment of samples by PCR (35 cycles) incorporating phytoplasma universal ribosomal RNA (rRNA) primer pair P1/P7. Reamplification of reaction mixtures from all negative samples using rRNA nested primer pair ppf1/Tint resulted in a further 43 (29.3 percent) positive detections. No differences were evident among phytoplasmas in Gliricidia samples collected in Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua according to restriction site analysis of rDNA amplification products. Collectively, rDNA fragment profiles of the Gliricidia little leaf (GLL) phytoplasma after digestion with either AluI, DraI, EcoRI, HaeIII, HhaI, HindIII, HinfI, KpnI, MspI, RsaI or Tru9I restriction endonucleases, matched those of phytoplasmas associated
with pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) witches' broom (PPWB) and Crotolaria (C. spectrabilis) witches' broom (CWB) disease. Polymorphic fragments revealed by digestion with TaqI differentiated the GLL phytoplasma from the latter pathogens. Similarity coefficients (F) derived by rDNA RFLP analysis were 0.99 for comparisons between both the GLL and PPWB or GLL and CWB phytoplasmas, respectively.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/95 to 09/30/96
Outputs
Strawberry plants with symptoms suggestive of phytoplasmal diseases were identified in commercial fields and a breeder's plot in west central Florida during the 1995-96 winter growing season. Phytoplasma infections in cultivars Oso Grande, Rosa Lynda, Carlsbad and a breeder's accession were detected by polymerase chain reaction assays. Restriction enzyme analysis of PCR-amplified ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene and ribosomal protein (rp) gene sequences classified phytoplasma strains associated with green petal (GP)diseased Rosa Lynda and Carlsbad plants as members of 16SrRNA-rp group 16S rI-C. RFLP patterns of strains associated with Oso Grande plants with symptoms more typical of multiplier disease were characteristic of strains comprising the 16S r-IA subgroup. However, unique AluI and TaqI restriction sites in rRNA and rp genes respectively, identified these strains as new subgroup members. RFLP patterns of the phytoplasma inducing GP symptoms on a breeder's accession
delineated this third strain into the 16S rI-I subgroup. This is the first report of phytoplasma infecting strawberry in Florida.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/94 to 09/30/95
Outputs
An oligonucleotide primer pair 5'-AACCTTGGGGACAAGTAGAATG-3' (forward) and 3'-CAGAAAAACCCGAAAAACGT-5' (reverse) was developed for detection of the phytoplasma associated with periwinkle (#Catharanthus roseus# L. (G. Don)) virescence disease (PVD) in southern Florida by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Dot and Southern hybridizations using genomic DNA fragments cloned from the PVD phytoplasma as probes were used to identify ragweed (#Ambrosia atremisiifolia#) and dogfennel (#Eupatorium capillifollium#) as alternate plant hosts of the PVD pathogen. Probe hybridization in combination with PCR were used to screen native leafhopper populations associated with ragweed for possible vectors of PVD. Two candidate leafhopper vectors, namely #Gyponana germari# Stal and #Penestragania robusta# Uhler were identified.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/93 to 09/30/94
Outputs
DNA amplification by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the mycoplasmalike organism (MLO) associated with maize bushy stunt (MBS) disease. For PCR, a pair of oligonucleotide primers 5'-AATGTCGAACTAACAGGCGG-3' (forward) and 5'- TTGGCGATTTGGTTTTGG-3' (reverse) was synthesized according to the partial sequence of a cloned 1-kbp fragment of MBS MLO genomic DNA isolated from bushy stunted sweet corn. PCR performed for 40 cycles with primer annealing at 60 C, amplified a 740-kbp DNA product in reaction mixtures containing template DNA derived from corn singly infected with MBS MLO isolates from Florida, Texas, Mexico and Costa Rica. No comparable product was amplified from DNAs of healthy corn or plants affected by various other MLO- associated diseases. MBS-specific PCR also permitted detection of the pathogen in presymptomatic corn tissues and in most non- vector #Peregrinus maidis# planthoppers given 24 hr of acquisition feeding on symptomatic plants.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/92 to 09/30/93
Outputs
Total DNAs were extracted from preserved tissues of plants collected from China using a standard CTAB extraction protocol. All plants displayed witches'-broom (WB) symptoms indicative of natural infection by mycoplasmalike organism (MLO)-associated diseases. Selective amplification of MLO ribosomal rDNA products by polymerase chain reactions (PCR) confirmed MLO infections in the following plants: Catharanthus roseus (periwinkle), Ziziphus jujuba (jujube), Cajanus (pigeon pea), Crotolaria anagroides, and Sesamum indicum (sesame). Digestions of rDNA amplimers with endonucleases AluI or RsaI produced very similar restriction fragment profiles for the latter three MLOs and were distinct from RDNA profiles of the Caribbean pigeon pea and Crotolaria agents revealed by these enzymes. Profiles observed for the periwinkle MLO indicated a close similarity with other MLOs belonging to the aster yellows group whereas profiles for the jujube WB MLO were unique. Shading compounds
that regulate plant photomorphogenesis to enhance production of potted and cut flower crops were identified. Orange shading compound #9-13062800 and red compound #9-13063800 produced plants having stems with stronger, longer internodes on three ornamental species, while blue compound #9-13064800 produced plants having stems with short internodes.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/91 to 09/30/92
Outputs
Closed circular supercoiled extrachromosomal DNA (Ex-DNA) of mycoplasmalike organisms (MLOs) associated with plant disease in Florida were separated from mixtures with host plant DNA by CsCl-EtBr density gradient centrifugation. Linearization of components of Ex-DNA fractions with DNAseI revealed three prominent Ex-DNA molecules of 5.9, 4.4 and 4.2 kb in size to be associated with the periwinkle witches'-broom agent. Linear Ex-DNAs of 7,2, 6.6 and 5.6 were associated with the maize bushy stunt agent while a single prominent Ex DNA was associated with the periwinkle virescence agent. Highly conserved, mollicute-specific oligonucleotide sequences were used for polymerase chain reactions (PCR) to prime the amplification of MLO 16S ribosomal (r) RNA gene sequences from DNAs derived from herbarium prepared specimens of various plant hosts naturally infected by MLOs. These included witches'-broom-affected pigeon pea, Crotolaria. anagroides, sesame, bamboo and periwinkle
plants each collected on Hainan Island, China during 1992. The objective was to identify shading compounds that would alter plant photomorphogenesis in a manner beneficial to ornamental plant production in containers. Hypoestes `Pink Splash' had shorter internodes (more compact growth) when produced under a blue shading compound compared to the standard white shading compound.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/90 to 09/30/91
Outputs
Genetic distinctions among mycoplasmalike organisms associated with Florida periwinkle witches'-broom (FWB) disease were demonstrated by sequential dot and Southern hybridizations and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analyses of total DNAs from infected plants with previously characterized and newly developed cloned MLO DNA probes. Of 72 MLO isolates examined by this means, 46 hybridized at moderate stringency with (superscript 32)P-labeled probe pSA45, a cloned 4.9-kb plasmid of a western aster yellows (WAY) MLO. Sixty four isolates hybridized with recombinant plasmid pFWBA27 containing a 1.3-kb Sau 3A fragment of FWB MLO extrachromosomal DNA. Likewise, probes pFWBA33 and pFWBE9 each containing 1.0-kb and 1.7-kb fragments of FWB MLO chromosomal DNA, respectively, hybridized to DNA of these same 64 MLO isolates. EcoRI-digested DNA of the eight remaining MLO isolates which consistently did not hybridize to the latter three FWB MLO probes, yielded
identical 16S rRNA gene RFLP's upon hybridization to probe pPY6, a 1.7-kb cloned fragment of the western X-disease MLO 16S rRNA gene. This RFLP pattern was distinguishable from the majority of FWB MLO isolates. All 64 isolates of this group also yielded identical 16S rRNA RFLP's. In turn, RFLP patterns resulting from hybridization of probes pPY6, pFWBA33 or pFWBE9 to DNA of representatives from each FWB MLO group, were distinct from those patterns observed for aster yellows and other hybridizing Florida MLOs.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/89 to 10/30/90
Outputs
Mycoplasmalike organisms (MLO's) associated with witches'-broom disease of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) in Florida were transmitted to periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) using dodder (Cuscuta sp.). MLO-enriched preparations were prepared from diseased periwinkle by use of an osmotically supplemented extraction buffer and differential centrifugation. DNA extracts from these preparations were subjected to CsC1-bizbenzimide buoyant density gradient centrifugation to separate MLO DNA from mixtures with host DNA. A putative MLO DNA band (buoyant density 1.60 g cm3), uppermost in gradients, was used for molecular cloning. HindIII-Eco RI restriction fragments of this DNA were ligated with pUC19 plasmids and cloned in Escherichia coli DH5-alpha. Recombinant plasmid DNA from 80 of 420 recombinant colonies was screened by dot hybridization with (P)-dATP labeled DNA from healthy and diseased plants. Seventy of 80 recombinant plasmid DNA samples hybridized to MLO DNA only. Southern
hybridization analyses using selected recombinant plasmids as probes, established that extrachromosomal DNA was associated with isolates of WB MLO's in both periwinkle and pigeon pea.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/88 to 09/30/89
Outputs
Mycoplasmalike organisms (MLO's) causing witches' broom disease of periwinkle were extracted and partially purified from affected plants. These enriched preparations were used as a source of DNA for molecular cloning. MLO DNA was separated from mixtures with plant DNA by cesium chloride/bizbenzimide density gradient centrifugation and digested with Sau 3A. DNA fragments (2-9 Kb) were ligated into the plasmid vector pUC 8 and cloned in DH5-alpha Escherichia coli cells. Recombinants containing chromosomal or extrachromosomal fragments of MLO DNA were identified by sequential colony hybridizations with P-labeled DNA from healthy and diseased plants. The sensitivity of three serological techniques and phase-contrast microscopy to detect Clavibacter xyli subsp. xyli, the causal agent of ratoon stunting disease (RSD) of sugarcane was compared. Relative detection efficiencies of a tissue-blot enzyme immunoassay (EIA), dot-blot EIA and phase contrast microscopy were
94.7, 91 and 87.8%, respectively, when compared with a fluorescent-antibody-direct count on filters technique. Because of their suitability for multiple sample processing and their ease of application, the tissue blot and dot blot EIA's can provide a practical means to screen plants for RSD on a large scale, e.g. in field surveys of disease incidence. Data provided by the former technique should also enable evaluation of cultivar resistance to RSD in breeding programs.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/87 to 10/30/88
Outputs
Resistance of bald cypress, Toxodium distichum, heartwood against termites is attributed to the sesquiterpene alcohol, manool, and the phevol, ferruginol. A selective medium for isolation of Xanthomonas maltophilia from bulk soil and plant roots has been developed. This will provide a new technique for isolating potential biologica control agents. The etiology of a mystery wilt disease outbreak amongst 9-year-old 'Malayan Dwarf' coconut palms was investigated. Electron microscopic examination of apical bud tissues from declining palms revealed the presence of mycoplasmalike organisms in phloem tissues of all samples examined. Using a recombinant plasmid rpPD31, comprised of the E. coli pUC8 plasmid and a DNA segment of approx. 1 kb of chromosomal DNA from the VT-1 strain of the Pierce's disease (PD) bacterium, a DNA probe for PD and almond leaf scorch (ALS) bacaeria was developed. rpPD31 was selected following colony hybridizations of a clone bank of VT-1 DNA
using p-labelled total DNA from ALS, periwinkle wilt (PW), elm leaf scorch (ELS) and ragweed (RG) bacteria. When rpPD31 was biotinylated, approx. 9 pg of target DNA, representing about 10 bacteria, immobilized on nitrocellulose filters was detected using alkaline phosphatase-labelled avidin. This probe hybridized with DNA of strains of (VT-1) PD, (AC-1) ALS and (ESG-1) ELS but not (PW-1) PW and (MiIV) RG DNA.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/86 to 10/30/87
Outputs
Resistance of bald cypress, Toxodium distichum, heartwood against termites is attributed to the sesquiterpene alcohol, manool, and the phevol, ferruginol. A selective medium for isolation of Xanthomonas maltophilia from bulk soil and plant roots has been developed. This will provide a new technique for isolating potential biologica control agents. The etiology of a mystery wilt disease outbreak amongst 9-year-old 'Malayan Dwarf' coconut palms was investigated. Electron microscopic examination of apical bud tissues from declining palms revealed the presence of mycoplasmalike organisms in phloem tissues of all samples examined. Using a recombinant plasmid rpPD31, comprised of the E. coli pUC8 plasmid and a DNA segment of approx. 1 kb of chromosomal DNA from the VT-1 strain of the Pierce's disease (PD) bacterium, a DNA probe for PD and almond leaf scorch (ALS) bacteria was developed. rpPD31 was selected following colony hybridizations of a clone bank of VT-1 DNA
using p-labbeled total DNA from ALS, periwinkle wilt (PW), elm leaf scorch (ELS) and ragweed (RG) bacteria. When rpPD31 was biotinylated, approx. 9 pg of target DNA, representing about 10 bacteria, immobilized on nitrocellulose filters was detected using alkaline phosphatase-labelled avidin. This probe hybridized with DNA of strains of (VT-1) PD, (AC-1) ALS and (ESG-1) ELS but not (PW-1) PW and (MiIV) RG-DNA.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/85 to 10/30/86
Outputs
A method is described which utilizes a wooden block placed in the ground to baitthe Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, in an urban environment. More than 10,000 termites have been collected from a single trap. Traps also provide an access to monitor the field activity of foraging populations of this species in infested urban sites. Resistance of bald cypress, Taxodium ditichum, heartwood against termites is attributed to a series of structurally related diterpene alcohols which are hexane extractable. The antitermitic activity of 2-halogenated fatty acids and esters is mainly determined by chainlength (optimum at C(18)-C(22)) and halogen moiety (optimum iodine). Ethy1-2-iodooctadecanoate is a highly active antitermitic against the Formosan subterranean termite at 0.1% w/w in wood.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/84 to 09/30/85
Outputs
Developed a programmable calculator software package for rapid and accurate determination of nursery growing medium requirements. Field comparison of sulfaryl fluoride susceptibility among three termite species, Incisitermes schwarzi, cryptotermes cavifrons and coptotermes formosanus showed that mortality for all three species was the same when termites were confined to vented petri dishes while mortality for C. formosanus was lower than the other two drywood termites when confined in wood enclosures. In all treatments except C. formosanus in wood enclosures, mortality followed a simple hyperbolic concentration vs. time function and reached 100% mortality from accumulated dosages of 28-49 mg hr/1. C. formosanus required dosages of =95 mg hr/1 for 100% mortality. Nineteen wood species from Florida and the Caribbean have been tested for resistance to feeding by the Formosan subterranean termite. Although other woods also showed resistance, bald cypress, Taxodium
distichum, and Melaleuca quinquenervia heartwoods were chosen to determine their chemical basis for resistance. A chloroform-hexane elution from a bald cypress hexane extract and an acetone extract from melaleuca have shown antifeedant activity against C. formosanus.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 01/01/84 to 12/30/84
Outputs
Attempts to isolate in pure culture a bacterial spore-forming parasite of plant pathogenic nematodes are being pursued. A fluorescent-antibody-direct-count-on-filters (FADCF) technique has been adapted and is being tested to detect chronic infections of sugarcane with the leaf scald pathogen, Zanthomonas albilineans. Attempts have been made to identify the cause of a mysterious wilt disease of coconut palms. Palms affected with the disease exhibit extensive tyloses formation in xylem vessels within roots. Completed laboratory analyses for cadmium, lead, copper, zinc, and manganese in foliage, and fruit of carambola (Averrhoa carambola) and Barbadoes cherry (Malpighia glabra) grown in 20-gallon containers with sewage sludge compost as the potting medium. Demonstrated no significant uptake of these elements into the above-ground portions of these 2 species, as compared to concentrations in the potting medium. Three surveys in Asia and Australia for natural enemies
of the aquatic weed hydrilla discovered over 45 insect species, belonging to three groups which damage aquatic plants (weevils, mostly Bagous spp.; ephydrid flies, mostly Hydrellia sp.; and pyralid moths). In 1985 a one-year study is planned in Australia to evaluate the specificity and impact on hydrilla of a number of these insects which are deemed most promising for the biologican control of this aquatic weed.
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Progress 01/01/83 to 12/30/83
Outputs
A survey was continued in S. Broward County Florida to detect the presence of the Formosan termite (Coptotermes formosanus) and another subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes.) The grounds of 10 condominiums and 2 residences were positive for formosan termites and 5 condominiums were positive for Reticulitermes flavipes. The survey is being terminated. Studies on the interactions of 3 parasite species (Encarsia Opulenta, E. smithi and Amitus hesperidum) of Aleurocanthus woglumi on Merritt Island, Florida has continued. In December 1983, E. opulenta is the dominant parasite. An adaptation was made on soil TLC as a rapid and practical means of establishing leaching characteristics of pesticides in Florida soil, using non-radioactive development/visualization. Found that by careful regulation of pH the dansylated amino acids can be separated from dansylated polyamides and related pH compounds. Several improved procedures were developed for natural product
analyses, as follows: Digestion of plant parts and fruit for nutrient and heavy metal in one step; fractionation and concentratioin of hydrocarbons from plant cuticle lipids by TLC for GC analysis; high pressure liquid chromatogric procedure for free pool amino acids in corn; high pressure liquid chromatographic (HPLC) procedure for abscisic, gibberellic and phenolic acids from plants.
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Progress 01/01/82 to 12/30/82
Outputs
An unidentified fungus isolated after plating suspensions of spores of the mycorrhizal fungus, Glomus epigeus, did not stimulate growth of soybean. The unidentified fungus may be a hyperparasite of G. epigeus, but this has not been established. The chemical antitranspirants Protec Registered Trademark did not reduce plant water demand in Ficus benjamina or Philadendron selloum, but Folicote Registered Trademark did reduce water demand in both species by approximately 10%. Searches for potential biological control agents for Hydrilla verticillata were conducted in Kenya, India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Australia. A list of potential enemies of hydrilla is being compiled. In a preliminary study the presence or absence of the free amino acid arginine has been found to correlate with relative susceptability of 18 palm sp.to lethal yellowing (LY), a mycoplasmal disease. Biological control investigations continue on the interactions of 3
parasite species on 1 host. Preliminary data indicate that unmated females produce only males in hosts already parasitized by another species. Data also support the hypothesis that 1 species always outcompetes the other, regardless of which lays eggs first in the host. A survey shows that the Formosan termite is now present in at least 60 square miles of Broward County. The survey will be expanded in early 1983.
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Progress 01/01/81 to 12/30/81
Outputs
The chromatographic analysis of free amino acids is being explored to elucidate possible relationships between the free amino acid pattern of plants and their susceptibility to certain diseases and insects. The triangle palm (Neodypsis decaryi), anew palm introduction is being evaluated as a potential replacement species for palms known to be susceptible to lethal yellowing (LY). It was found to be susceptible to LY. Presence of mycoplasmalike organisms was confirmed by electron microscope studies. The location of spiroplasma in tissues of Galleria mellonella larvae was confirmed. Electron microscopic examination for microorganisms in tissues of "Socorro Wilt" diseased coconut palms from the Philippines and of citrus with greening disease are in progress. Mycoplasmalike organisms were found in association with a witches' broom of pigeonpea, Cajanus cajan, in Dade County. Dual infection of mycoplasmalike organisms and bacteria was found in Melia sp. (chinaberry)
collected in the Peoples Republic of China.
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Progress 01/01/80 to 12/30/80
Outputs
Rust-colored residues caused by overhead irrigation of ornamental plants with water containing high levels of calcium and iron were successfully removed by spraying plants with a 3% solution of oxalic acid plus a surfactant, followed by a thorough rinse with plain water. Residue decay dynamics for acephate and its toxic metabolite, methamidophos were determined on citrus foliage in urban areas. Time increments that high levels of residues would be present with possible human exposure potential were also determined. The effects of fertility level, mowing height and disposition of clippings on thatch accumulation, weed populations, turf quality of St. Augustinegrass have been evaluated for a period of 22 months. Best turf quality and lowest weed populations resulted under the following conditions: 4 g/m 2 of nitrogen every 8 weeks, mowing height of 6.35 cm, and finely pulverizing the clippings with a mulching mower. In contrast, poorest turf quality and the highest
weed densities (83% cover) occurred with low fertility (2 g/m 2), close 3.81 cm) mowing, and when clippings were removed. Greatest thatch accumulation occurred following: higher fertilization, higher mowing cut, and leaving unmulched clippings. Very little thatch developed in low fertility plots.
Impacts
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Progress 01/01/79 to 12/30/79
Outputs
The effects of solar radiation on basal branching of Dracaena marginata was completed. Acclimated plants containing 3-6 canes per plant were produced by initially growing one rooted tip cutting in full sun for 9 months and than acclimating it for 3 months under 63% shage. Initial evaluations of coconut palm cultivars at site test plantings in South Florida indicate 'Maypan' hybrids may be better adapted than 'Malayan Dwarf' coconut palms in areas where fertility is low. Establishment of a lethal yellowing (LY) test garden has been completed and planted with 16 species of promising new palms. Several other species will be added in 1980. Germination studies of palm seeds has been completed. Results show substantial differences between palm species in length of time to germinate, percent germination vs. seedage, and soil media used. Preliminary experiments show that incidence of a leafspot disorder in Ficus elastica 'Robusta' was accelerated by withholding water,
air layering, and by growing them in full sun. Present work is testing the relationship of stomatal resistance and leaf surface and ambient temperature to the problem. Experiments testing the effects of photoperiod on flower induction of Heliconia psitticorum and growth rate of Sweetinia mahogany has been initiated. Leaf alkines and flavinoids are being used to evaluate taxonomic relationships among species and cultivars of Polyscias.
Impacts
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Progress 01/01/78 to 12/30/78
Outputs
Plantings of coconut palm cultivars having resistance to lethal yellowing (LY) disease were established at selected locations throughout South Florida to conduct long-term evaluations of their adaptability and horticultural requirements and characteristics. Completed evaluations of response of the palms in Fairchild Tropical Garden to the LY disease. Continued establishment of palms for LY studies by adding 93 new species for the evaluation studies. Initiated research to determine the effects of irrigating container-grown ornamentals with water containing a copper herbicide. Trapping methods were developed to determine which insects are associated with the coconut palm in Jamaica. In one test site 41 different plant-feeding species with sucking mouth parts were trapped. About 95% were homopterans. Studies were initiated with radio isotypes to identify those actually feeding on the palms. Four insect trapping methods were used in seven different locations in
Jamaica in both healthy and diseased areas. Each area had a few insect species not found in other areas while a larger fauna appeared ubiquitous in the island. Some species were caught only in one kind of trap and the numbers of each species caught varied greatly from one location to another.
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Progress 01/01/77 to 12/30/77
Outputs
A system for control of citrus blackfly (CBF) was developed using either malathion or acephate applied by hydraulic sprayer, or mistblower for use by regulatory agencies in the eradication program. A 16 city block study using these chemicals demonstrated the feasibility of CBF eradication. Residue data was compiled for both chemicals; Diazinon and ethion now have 24-C state labels. The utility of an integrated management system utilizing both chemical and biological control for management of CBF was tested and emphasized areas of compatibility between biological and chemical strategies. The short-term impact of 3 insecticides acephate less than malathion less than methidathion on parasites and predators of CBF was accessed. Several insecticides and insecticide-surfactants formulations were evaluated. Population dynamics (build-up, decline, dispersal, hosts, etc.) of CBF and its parasites was measured. The equation Y = -0.0123+0.0009X (Y = 1/#days, X =Temp.
degrees C,. threshold = 13.7 degrees C, = 0.99) describes the temperature dependent growth of CBF and allows the interconversion of calcader and physiological time. CBF was found on several native plants; Mango was found incapable of sustaining a CBF population without a constant immigration of gravid female. Survival was greatest on lemon and poorest on grapefruit with other citrus species in between. Lethal temperatures are being investigated for CBF and its parasites. Parasites can be stored within the CBF host for later releases.
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Progress 01/01/76 to 12/30/76
Outputs
Germination and growth experiments with 44 new palm introductions were initiatedwith a veiw to selecting plants resistant to the ethal yellowing disease (LY) and with horticultural characteristics to warrant further testing and possible release as replacement species for the LY-susceptible palms.
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Progress 01/01/73 to 12/30/73
Outputs
The weed, waterhyacinth, reinvades waterways rapidly following chemical destruction but can potentially be controlled by continuous stress, such as produced by safe and host-specific biological control insects. The weevil, Neochetina eichhorniae Warner has already been introduced into the United Statesfrom Argentina, and the weevil, Neochetina bruchi Hustache, and the moth, Acigona infusella (Walker), are scheduled for introduction in 1974. A South American strain of waterhyacinth mite, Orthogalumna terebrantis Wallwork, is also being considered. Field surveys of N. eichhorniae release sites during thepast year have indicated successful establishment of the insect and population increase, approaching control levels in some sites. Growth regulator studies onornamental plants indicated that ethrel could be used to stimulate "adult-like" growth on False Aralia and that GA would make the plants appear more juvenile. Tests showed that GA could be used to increase the
growth rate of Boxwood Beautyand Bonsai cultivars of Carissa grandiflora which normally are quite dwarf. SD 8339 at rates of 2500 and 5000 ppm promoted lateral branching of Ixora plants and eliminated the need for pruning. Ixora coccinea 'Nora Grant' treated with 6mg/plant flowered much earlier and were more commercially acceptable than untreated plants.
Impacts
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Progress 01/01/72 to 12/30/72
Outputs
Waterhyacinth, a serious weed which reinvades waterways rapidly following chemical destruction of the plant, can best be controlled by continuous stress. The current project is an attempt to produce this stress using imported, safe and host-specific biological control insects. The insects from Argentina being considered for introduction in the United States are the weevils, Neochetina eichhorniae Warner and Neochetina bruchi Hustache, and the moth, Acigona infusella (Walker). A South American Strain of waterhyacinth mite, Orthogalumnaterebrantis Wallwork, is also being considered. The first of these, N. eichorniae, has already been released in 13 locations and has already passed through a generation in the field. Several possible ingredients for potting soil media were observed. These included mixtures of various proportions of rawsewage sludge, water treatment sludge, ground water hyacinths, a commercially available soil mix (Atlas 235), and spent pine chips
from a solvent extraction processing plant. Preliminary results with Dizygotheca elegantissima indicate that ground waterhyacinth alone shrinks and holds an excessive amount of moisture. Sewage sludge in the amounts used (25 - 100%) caused poor drainage. Spent wood chips look promising as an additive especally when good drainage is necessary. Water treatment sludge may be a desirable additive also, as the plants grew well in media containing it. A number of plant growth regulators are under investigation for their possible effects on rate of growth, branching, rooting and flowering. Several have shown considerable promise in retarding height growth and in the induction of lateral branching without pruning.
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Progress 01/01/71 to 12/30/71
Outputs
Progress is being made in aquatic weed control. The white amur (Ctenopharyngodon idella Val.) was stocked in 0.2-acre ponds in Orange County, Florida on October 27, 1971. The fish were stocked in each of three ponds at the rate of 1, 2, and 4 fish per pond. One pond without fish will serve as the control. Prior to stocking the ponds with the herbivorous fish, the ponds were planted with hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata Casp.), Southern Najad (Najas guadalupensis (Spreng.) Magnus), chara (Chara sp.), vallisnerie (Vallisneria americana Michx.), and common cattails (Type latifolia L.). The ponds will be monitored to determine the plant preference by the white amur and to evaluate the effect of this fish on water quality. Game fish were stocked in the ponds prior to introduction of the white amur. The effect of the white amur on these game fish will be evaluated when the study is terminated and the ponds drained. Studies relating to the uptake of copper by hydrilla,
parrotfeather (Myriophyllum brasiliense Camb.), and waterhyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms), have been completed and the results published. Other studies have been initiated dealing with the effect of copper on the uptake of carbon-14labeled herbicides by various aquatic plants. (D L Sutton)
Impacts
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Progress 01/01/69 to 12/30/69
Outputs
Granular Betasan at 8, 16, & 32, Dymid at 4, 8, & 16, RH-315 at 1/2, 1, & 2, Simazine at 2, & 4, Treflan at 2, 4, & 8 and Tupersan at 4, 8, & 12 lbs. active/A. have been applied to Asparagus springerii, Carissa, Ligustrum, Oleander, Orange Iasmine, and Podocarpus grown in 60:40 muck and sand in black gallon plastic containers. Treflan gave good weed control for a period of 12 weeks with no toxicity at any rate. Dymid gave variable weed control. Simazinegave excellent weed control, but was toxic to A. springerii and ligustrum. The remainder gave unsatisfactory weed control, but showed no toxicity. Liquid formulations have not been studied. The following herbicides were tested for initial knockdown and long term weed control around nursery containers: (1) Bromacil & Paraquat @10 & 2 lbs. active/A., (2) Bromacil & Pentachlorophenol (PCP) @ 10 & 8, (3) Tandex & PCP @ 15 & 8, (4) Triox Prometone & PCP @ 25 & 8, (5) Terbacil & Paraquat @ 10 & 2, (6) Diuron & Paraquat @
10 & 2, (7) Simazine &Paraquat @ 10 & 2, and (8) Atrazine & Paraquat @ 10 & 2. Initial knockdown was most effective with the Paraquat, with PCP just as good in 48 to 72 hours. Bromacil and Tandex gave the best initial knockdown, when combined with the PCP.The treatments were applied to sandy soil and muck-sand combinations. Of the above treatments #1,2,3, & 5 remained effective after 6 mos. giving 95 to 100% control of sugar sand and 80+% control on the muck-sand soil. The remainder areineffective on the muck-sand soil.
Impacts
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Progress 01/01/68 to 12/30/68
Outputs
Research showed that twice weekly treatments of Surinam-cherry with malathion, carbaryl or naled at 2 lbs, 2 lbs, and 1 lb actual insecticide per 100 gal of spray respectively all provided better than 98% clean fruit. Treatment was initiated after a heavy population of flies was already active in nearby plants.Fruit in the experimental treatment was still green and had not begun to show any color change indicating ripening. Twice weekly experimental treatments of peaches with malathion, carbaryl, and naled at the above rates and trichlorfon at 1 lb per 100 gal of spray produced 65%, 74%, 76%, and 90%, clean fruit respectively. Treatments were initiated when peaches were in the green stage and approximately golf-ball size. Test conducted with guava revealed that twiceweekly spray treatments with malathion carbaryl, naled, and trichlorfon, initiated before the guavas had begun to soften and show any color-break, prevented infestation of treated trees and reduced the
percentage of infested fruit in adjacent untreated trees to less than 25%. In a second guava experiment, weekly spray treatments initiated after the crop was approximately one-fourth ripe and a heavy Caribbean fruit fly population had developed were ineffective in reducing the percent infested fruit. All of the above treatmentswere applied by conventional ground spray equipment with the foliage and fruit sprayed to the point of run-off.
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