Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, have found Tamarixia radiata, a wasp, is the natural enemy of Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) and is safe for use by growers. 
ACPs have been found to spread huanglongbing (HLB, citrus greening), the incurable citrus disease. Research began on the project in 2011 when the wasps were released into a citrus grove in Riverside. The question buzzing around the research was whether or not the wasp was safe to use.
According to the UC Riverside website, "Results from Federally mandated tests performed at the University of California, Riverside now show that Tamarixia radiata is indeed safe for the environment and poses no undue risk to other insects, humans or pets."
To see the full research, go to the UC Riverside website.
Photo: courtesy of Jason Mottern, UC Riverside
Latest from Produce Grower
- BioWorks introduces Sandrine Copper Soap and Cintro Insecticidal Soap
- BrightFarms debuts campaign for National Quitter’s Day
- Emerald Packaging joins US Flexible Film Initiative
- Circana forecasts steady but nuanced growth for fresh produce market in 2026
- BioWorks appoints Jason Miller as director of sales and distributor relations manager
- Florida Ag Research appoints Jason Hamm as southeast USA area research manager
- Fresh Inset appoints Gordon Robertson as general manager, North America
- Texas International Produce Association announces 2026 Texas Produce Hall of Fame inductees