Homestead Fights Two-Spotted Cotton Leaf Hopper Invasion

Homestead residents may soon hear more about the Two-Spotted Cotton Leaf Hopper, the latest invasive pest to concern local agricultural experts. Florida's entomologists identify an average of one new invasive pest each month, keeping researchers busy protecting the state's diverse ecosystems and agricultural interests.

Dr. Dakshina Seal and his lab at the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC) are actively researching pest management strategies for South Florida. Their work focuses on understanding the biology and behaviors of harmful insects that threaten vegetable crops and the broader agro-ecosystem in Miami-Dade County.

Dr. Seal's lab communicates directly with local growers and publishes research articles, aiming to provide practical solutions for managing these invasive species. Their efforts are crucial for safeguarding Homestead's agricultural sector against the continuous threat posed by new pests like the Two-Spotted Cotton Leaf Hopper.