Author: dihagan

Hydrellia fly parasitic wasp Trichopria columbiana Ashmead (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Diapriidae)

Figure 3. Second or third instar larva of Trichopria columbiana (Ashmead). Credit: Byron Coon, Argosy UniversityTrichopria columbiana is a parasitoid of Hydrellia fly species. Depending on the ecological role of the host species, it can have a positive or negative effect on biological control. Some Hydrellia species feed on the invasive aquatic weed hydrilla. After its introduction into the U.S. by the aquarium industry in the 1950s (Langeland 1996), various control methods, including biological control, were developed and used to manage infestations. Classical biological control studies were initiated in the 1970s, which led to the release of four insects in the U.S., two of which were the leaf-mining ephydrid flies, Hydrellia pakistanae and Hydrellia balciunasi. Despite successful establishment and range expansion of the Asian hydrilla leaf mining fly, Hydrellia pakistanae, population levels of the insect and associated plant damage have remained low. One of the potentially limiting biotic factors is parasitism by the native endoparasitic wasp Trichopria columbiana. This 6-page fact sheet was written by Byron R. Coon, Nathan E. Harms, Michael J. Grodowitz, Emma N.I. Weeks, and James P. Cuda, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, June 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1040

Hydrilla tuber weevil Bagous affinis Hustache (Insecta: Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Figure 1. Adults of the hydrilla tuber weevil, Bagous affinis on a tuber of Hydrilla verticillata. Credit: Gary Buckingham USDA-Agricultural Research ServiceBagous affinis Hustache is a semi-aquatic weevil that feeds on the aquatic invasive plant Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle. The larvae of the weevil mine hydrilla tubers, and the adults feed on the submerged stems and leaves. The weevil was discovered during surveys for biological control agents for hydrilla in Pakistan in 1980 and was first introduced to the U.S. in Florida from India in 1987. This 5-page fact sheet was written by Emma Weeks, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, June 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1039

Grass Carp, the White Amur: Ctenopharyngodon idella Cuvier and Valenciennes (Actinopterygii: Cyprinidae: Squaliobarbinae)

Figure 7. Adult grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella Val.The grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella Cuvier and Valenciennes, was imported to the U.S. in 1963 as a biological control agent for hydrilla (Hydrilla verticilliata (L.f.) Royle) and other aquatic plants. Concerns of escape and reproduction, and the potential impacts that colonization of the fish could have on native flora and fauna led to research that developed a non-reproductive fish, which was equally effective in controlling hydrilla. In the warm waters of Florida, with abundant food, grass carp grow quickly at around 2 lbs/month or 0.91 kg/month and may achieve weights of 97 lbs (44 kg). Younger fish and female fish grow faster than older or male fish. Grass carp are the most effective biological control tool that has been identified for hydrilla. This 7-page fact sheet was written by Emma N.I. Weeks and Jeffrey E. Hill, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, June 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1038

Hydrilla Stem Weevil Bagous Hydrillae O’Brien

Figure 1. Adult of the hydrilla stem weevil, Bagous hydrillae. Credit: Gary Buckingham, USDA-ARSBagous hydrillae O’Brien is a semi-aquatic weevil that feeds on the aquatic invasive weed Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle. Larvae of the weevil mine hydrilla stems and the adults feed on the stems and submerged leaves. This weevil was discovered during overseas surveys for biological control agents for hydrilla during the 1980s and was first introduced to the U.S. in Florida in 1991 after extensive host-specificity testing. This 5-page fact sheet was written by Emma Weeks, Jim Cuda, and Michael J. Grodowitz, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, June 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1036

Hydrilla leaf mining flies (unofficial common name) Hydrellia spp. (Insecta: Diptera: Ephydridae)

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1034Figure 1. Adults of hydrilla leaf mining fly, Hydrellia spp.Several native and introduced species of flies in the genus Hydrellia are important because they feed on hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata L.f. Royle), an invasive aquatic plant that has been classified as a Federal Noxious Weed. Hydrilla has invaded aquatic ecosystems in Florida and across the U.S. Larvae of Hydrellia spp. mine the leaves of hydrilla. In Florida, there are four species that have been associated with the invasive aquatic weed hydrilla: two native species and two species that were introduced for biological control of hydrilla. The native species are Hydrellia bilobifera Cresson and Hydrellia discursa Deonier. The introduced species are Hydrellia pakistanae Deonier and Hydrellia balciunasi Bock. This 6-page fact sheet was written by Emma Weeks and James Cuda, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, April 2014.

Selecting a Name for Your 4-H Club

club portrait with cloverleaf logo cutoutEach 4-H club is a unique group of individuals who work together toward common goals. A club name should reflect the purpose(s) of the club, often relating to the project(s) the club participates in, or the geographic area where members live or the club meets. One of the first ways to develop a sense of belonging and youth engagement is allowing all of the members to participate in selecting a name for the club. Information in this sheet may help you guide the members in making a wise name choice. This 2-page fact sheet was written by Keith G. Diem, Marilyn N. Norman, Joy C. Jordan, and Lindsey McConnell, and published by the UF Department of 4-H Youth Development, July 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/4h337

How to Start a Club (for Youth Ages 8–18)

Leader working with 4-H youthBeing in a 4-H club provides important opportunities for youth to learn subject matter and life skills while working with a caring adult and other youth. Once youth are 4-H members, they become eligible for a variety of the benefits of belonging to 4-H, including awards, trips, and special events. Of course, it’s meant to be fun for the kids and the leaders too! Starting a 4-H club isn’t difficult, and you are encouraged to seek help from parents or other volunteers. Local Extension/4-H staff can help you get started. This 4-page fact sheet was written by Keith G. Diem, Joy Jordan, Bryan Terry, Dale Pracht, Judy Butterfield, Adam Cletzer, Lindsey McConnell, and Ben Knowles, and published by the UF Department of 4-H Youth Development, July 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/4h336

Visualizing Spatially Based Data for Various Stakeholder Audiences

Figure 1. Example of map-based data visualization that follows principles suggested by learning research. The work of Extension professionals is often to translate complex research findings into practical recommendations. One of the tools used for communicating with Extension audiences is visual representation of data. These visualizations include graphs, charts, and data overlaid onto maps. Just as text and words must be thoughtfully prepared for broad understanding, images should be adapted from the forms used with highly knowledgeable audiences. This 6-page fact sheet summarizes research in science communication and education that offers strategic ways for communicators to revise data visualizations for broad meaning-making. Written by Kathryn Stofer, and published by the UF Department of Agricultural Education and Communication, May 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc163

Hydrilla Integrated Management

cover of bookThe focus of the book is on hydrilla management in Florida, although the described tactics are known and used in many of the 28 states in the United States with hydrilla infestations. Divided in seven chapters, the book guides the reader through a general introduction to the problems associated with hydrilla; identification of the plant; instructions for early detection of infestations including federal and state laws and regulations; detailed descriptions of available control tactics; proposals for integrated management plans; descriptions of insects and fish associated with hydrilla; and supplementary information including contacts for assistance when readers encounter infestations. This 144-page book was written by Jennifer L. Gillett-Kaufman, Verena-Ulrike Lietze, and Emma N.I. Weeks, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, August 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1044

Keeping it Clean: Plan Your Cleaning

fy787This 1-page fact sheet lists the things you should clean as you go, those tasks you should do immediately, and tasks to do less often. Written by Mary N. Harrison, Amanda Griffin, and Randall A. Cantrell, and published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, May 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy787

Keeping It Clean: A Healthy House

Father and daughter cleaning in the kitchenThe way you clean and maintain your home will affect the health of your family, especially children. The incidence of children diagnosed with asthma is increasing. You can help make your home safe and healthy for your children by eliminating or controlling the risks outlined in this publication. This 2-page fact sheet was written by Mary N. Harrison, Amanda Griffin, and Randall A. Cantrell, and published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, May 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy786

Keeping it Clean: Controlling Mildew

water splattered tile floorMildew is a mold that can grow and cause damage to your health and home. The concern about mildew is that it is believed to contribute to respiratory problems, like asthma, especially in children. This 1-page fact sheet provides tips for preventing mildew and for getting rid of it. Written by Mary N. Harrison, Randall A. Cantrell, and Amanda Griffin, and published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, May 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy796

Datos sobre los antioxidantes

Plate of vegetables and a blood pressure cuff and monitorNuestro cuerpo está constituido de células. Dentro de éstas ocurren constantemente reacciones químicas, que se conocen colectivamente como metabolismo. Estas reacciones son necesarias para la vida, pero algunas veces crean radicales libres. Los radicales libres son moléculas altamente reactivas que pueden iniciar reacciones dañinas en cadena en nuestras células. Esto se conoce como estrés oxidativo. Diversas investigaciones relacionan el estrés oxidativo con muchas enfermedades: artritis, enfermedades de los pulmones (como enfisema), enfermedades del corazón, enfermedad cerebro vascular, ulceras, hipertensión, Parkinson y Altzheimer, distrofia muscular y otras. El estrés oxidativo también contribuye al proceso normal de envejecimiento. This 3-page fact sheet is the Spanish language version of Facts about Antioxidants, written by Kaitlin G. Clark and Wendy J. Dahl, and published by the UF Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, July 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs251

Datos sobre los Carbohidratos

Figure 1. Nutrition labelLos carbohidratos, grasas y proteínas son los tres nutrientes que proveen energía (calorías). Sin embargo, los carbohidratos como los almidones y azúcares son la fuente más importante y principal de energía. Durante la digestión, el almidón se rompe en azúcares (glucosa). Los carbohidratos en forma de glucosa proveen energía a las células, tejidos y órganos para llevar a cabo las actividades diarías. Alguna glucosa se almacena en el hígado y células de los músculos para usarla cuando se requiera. Los niños necesitan carbohidratos para el crecimiento y los adultos necesitan para mantener el peso. This 3-page fact sheet is the Spanish language version of Facts about Carbohydrate, written by Nancy J. Gal, Amanda L. Ford and Wendy J. Dahl, and published by the UF Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, July 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs250

Demonstration Gardens in the University of Florida Cooperative Extension Service

Figure 50. Vegetable & Dooryard Fruit Garden in Palm Beach CountyUF/IFAS Extension supports a network of demonstration gardens throughout the state. These gardens showcase plants and practices appropriate for their locations and are open to the community free of charge. Learning opportunities abound for home gardeners and landscape professionals on design, planting, and maintenance procedures. The gardens typically have interpretative materials available, including signs, brochures, and self-guided tours. Many are sites for gardening festivals, workshops, and plant sales. This 27-page directory was written by Sydney Park Brown, Kim Taylor, and Emily Eubanks, and published by the UF Department of Environmental Horticulture, March 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep108

Incorporating Woody Ornamentals into Residential Landscapes to Reduce Nutrient Leaching

Figure 2. Residential landscape planted with mixed vegetation coverage Credit: Gitta HasingUrban landscapes in Florida are typically dominated by turfgrass monoculture, with ornamental landscape plants comprising only a small portion of the landscape. Incorporating more woody ornamentals into your landscape can reduce fertilization and irrigation demand and help reduce nutrient leaching losses from your yard—a combination that will help protect Florida’s water resources. This 3-page fact sheet was written by Drew C. McLean, Andrew K. Koeser, Amy L Shober, Zhixuan Qin, Gitta Hasing, and Richard C. Beeson, and published by the UF Department of Environmental Horticulture, July 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep503

Smooth-bark Mexican Pine (Pinus pseudostrobus)

Figure 1. Smooth-bark Mexican Pine in northern Florida Credit: Gary KnoxThis beautiful pine is distinguished by long, pendulous needles that form a graceful, open evergreen conifer. The slender needles are up to 12 inches long in groups (fascicles) of five. In its native environment, smooth-bark Mexican pine is considered fast growing, and can reach more than 120 feet tall and about 60 feet wide. In southern Georgia, trees have reached heights of 32 feet and widths of 25 feet in 10 years. Trees have a pyramidal form when young, becoming flat-topped with age. In its native range, smooth-bark Mexican pine grows in temperate to warm temperate areas with predominately summer rainfall. Florida’s similar climatic conditions suggest that smooth-bark Mexican pine will adapt well throughout the state. Cold hardiness is not well-defined, but this species has grown well in southern Georgia (USDA Cold Hardiness Zone 8b). This 2-page fact sheet was written by Gary W. Knox, and published by the UF Department of Environmental Horticulture, June 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep500

Water Use for Seepage-Irrigated Watermelon with Plastic Mulch in Florida

Figure 1. The drainage lysimeter for the watermelon crop water-use experiment Credit: Shukla et al. (2014)In Florida, watermelon is an important crop that accounts for a significant part of the state’s agricultural water use. Depending on the type of production system and climate, the water use of this crop can vary. In Florida, watermelon is predominantly grown on raised plastic-mulched beds. To develop improved water management and allocation plans, accurate water use estimates for watermelon are needed. Seepage irrigation under plastic mulch is a common production system used to produce watermelon in south and northeast Florida where the water table is shallow. Plastic mulch alters the rainfall entry and soil temperature of the raised beds and can significantly affect evapotranspiration. As there is no information on seepage-irrigated watermelon grown on plastic mulch for subtropical Florida, this 4-page fact sheet summarizes the results from a crop water use study for the seepage-irrigated watermelon in south Florida. Written by Sanjay Shukla and Niroj K. Shrestha, and published by the UF Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, August 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ae510

Water Use for Seepage-Irrigated Pepper with Plastic Mulch in Florida

Figure 1. The drainage lysimeter for the pepper crop water-use experiment Credit: Sanjay ShuklaBell pepper (Capsicum annuum) is an important crop for Florida and accounts for a significant fraction of its agricultural water use. Most of it is produced in south Florida, where the water table is shallow. Seepage irrigation is one of the most common systems used in south Florida for growing plastic-mulched vegetable crops, including bell pepper. Compared with an open field production, covering the soil with impermeable plastic reduces soil evaporation and increases transpiration. This 3-page fact sheet summarizes the results from a crop water use study for the seepage-irrigated pepper in south Florida.
Written by Sanjay Shukla, Niroj Shrestha, and Fouad H. Jaber, and published by the UF Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, August 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ae509

Water Use for Drip-Irrigated Watermelon with Plastic Mulch in Florida

Figure 1. The drainage lysimeter for watermelon experiment Credit: Sanjay ShuklaWatermelon is an important crop in Florida and accounts for a significant part of its agricultural water use. Watermelon is grown in open fields and on raised plastic-mulched beds, with the latter being the predominant production system in Florida. Accurate water use estimates for this crop are needed to develop better water allocation and management plans as well as for irrigation management. This publication summarizes the results from a crop water-use study for the drip-irrigated watermelon in south Florida. This 3-page fact sheet was written by Sanjay Shukla, Niroj K. Shrestha, Thomas A. Obreza, and Brian J. Boman, and published by the UF Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, August 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ae508