CITRUS LEAFMINER (LEPIDOPTERA, GRACILLARIIDAE) IN LIME - ASSESSMENT OF LEAF DAMAGE AND EFFECTS ON PHOTOSYNTHESIS

Studies were conducted to quantify leaf area damage to 'Tahiti' lime b y citrus leafminer (CLM) (Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton) and to rela te leaf damage to larval density and the length of time mining per lea f. Visual estimates of leaf damage were similar among five evaluators and were positively correlated with image analysis determinations. The number of CLM larvae per leaf and the number of days of mining were p ositively correlated with visual estimates of leaf damage and negative ly correlated with net photosynthesis. Leaf damage by CLM was negative ly correlated with net photosynthesis of potted trees and trees in an orchard. The data indicate that visual estimation is an accurate and r apid technique to assess leaf damage by CLM, and that leaf area damage and reductions in net photosynthesis due to CLM are related to the nu mber of larvae per leaf as well as to mining duration. (C) 1997 Elsevi er Science Ltd.