Myoporum Thrips
Native to Australia and New Zealand, an invasive insect species is causing severe disfiguration of Myoporum shrubs. The pest Klambothrips myopori, was introduced to our area and can be very aggressive. Leaf distortion is the most noticeable damage.
We are managing severe infestations in several Bay area communities. If infestations are detected early and treatment timing can be implemented before advanced damage occurs, plant mortality may be avoided. The photo of the myoporum hedge show a group of shrubs which had severe leaf galling. Left untreated, the hedge would soon look like other trees in adjacent neighborhoods. Both of these pictures were taken from the same geographic area.
Description and history
- First found in southern CA in 2005, Hawaii and the Bay area in 2008
- Native to Australia and New Zealand
- Causes severe galling of leaves
- Control strategies have been established
- Important to treat early in infestation cycle to obtain best results
Contact Tree Solutions staff if you need more information and/or think your trees are infested by this pest.
Treatment has proven difficult in mature shrubs. Control has been successful only if infestation is detected early and damage is minimal prior to treatment. Control requires twice annual applications of systemic pesticide.
It may be prudent to choose alternative shrub species and replace Myoporum shrubs if after 1-2 years control is not achieved. Each situation is unique and requires a professional assessment. Entomologists may be able to locate and cultivate natural predators which may prove beneficial augmentation in a control program.
