Thomas J. Weissling

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former assistant professor, Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center

Publications

Palmetto Weevil, Rhynchophorus cruentatus Fabricius (Insecta: Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

T. J. Weissling and R. M. Giblin-Davis

This document provides an in-depth profile of the palmetto weevil, Rhynchophorus cruentatus Fabricius, the largest weevil in North America. Native to Florida, this species has become a significant pest of stressed and transplanted palms. The article covers the weevil's distribution, physical characteristics, life cycle, host range, damage symptoms, and management strategies. It highlights the importance of early detection and integrated pest management to control infestations and prevent damage to palm trees.

Silky Cane Weevil, Metamasius hemipterus sericeus (Olivier) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Thomas J. Weissling and Robin M. Giblin-Davis

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the silky cane weevil, Metamasius hemipterus sericeus. It details the weevil's distribution, physical characteristics, life cycle, host range, and the damage it causes to sugarcane and ornamental palms. The article discusses the economic impact of infestations, management strategies including chemical and biological control, and the challenges in population assessment and trapping. Emphasis is placed on the importance of integrated pest management to mitigate the damage caused by this pest.

Diaprepes Root Weevil, Diaprepes abbreviatus (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Thomas J. Weissling, Jorge E. Peña, Robin M. Giblin-Davis, and Joseph L. Knapp, Jr.

This document provides an in-depth profile of the Diaprepes root weevil, Diaprepes abbreviatus, a significant pest in Florida. Native to the Caribbean, it was first reported in Florida in 1964 and has since spread, causing extensive damage to citrus and other crops. The article details the weevil's life cycle, host range, and the economic impact of its infestation. It also discusses various management strategies, including biological control methods and integrated pest management practices aimed at mitigating the damage caused by this pest. First published 1998.

Royal Palm Bug, Xylastodoris luteolus Barber (Insecta: Hemiptera: Thaumastocoridae)

T. J. Weissling, F. W. Howard, and A. W. Meerow

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences.

Cycad Aulacaspis Scale, Aulacaspis yasumatsui Takagi (Insecta: Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Diaspididae)

T. J. Weissling, F. W. Howard, and A. B. Hamon