Heightened Alert forPink Hibiscus Mealybug
The Cayman Islands has been placed on heightenedalert following the detection of the pink hibiscus mealybug (PHM)in neighbouring Florida. The PHM is a serious plant pest thatcan cause injury and death to the more than 200 agricultural andhorticultural plant species that it can infest.
The public is asked to pay particular attentionto plants on their properties, as well as those in public places,by looking for white, cotton-like masses on the plants. If theseare seen, do not attempt to cut or otherwise destroy the plants,as this would increase the risk of spreading the pest. Instead,call the Department of Agriculture (DoA) at 947-3090 and reportyour findings.
Importers and the public are also askedto comply with all conditions issued by the DoA regarding theimportation of plants and plant products.
Some of the plants affected by the PHM includehibiscus, croton, mahoe, sorrel, mango, sweet sop, red plum, avocado,citrus, guava, tomato and peppers. The pest feeds on plant sapand releases toxic substances that may injure or slowly kill theplant. They have no effect on humans and animals, but can hitchhikeon them and be carried away to infest plants in other areas. Windand ants can also spread PHM.
Noting that the pest could have severe negativeeffects on plants here if it became established, the Ministerof Agriculture, the Hon. Gilbert McLean, announced the heightenedalert following the notification from the Florida commissionerof agriculture. "Given our close travel and trade links withFlorida, my ministry is seeking more information from the commissioneron the extent of the infestation, as well as control measuresthat the state is implementing to ensure that plants and plantproducts exported to the Cayman Islands are not infested,"he said.
Since 1996, the DoA has been on alert andmonitoring the spread of PHM throughout the region, with the aimof keeping the pest from Cayman shores. However, staff membersare fully prepared to deal with a local outbreak if it occurs.
"The Cayman Islands is now one of thecountries considered high risk for infestation by the pink hibiscusmealybug," said Mr. McLean. "I am therefore urging thepublic and importers to join the diligent efforts of the Departmentof Agriculture in preventing this pest from coming to our shores."