Source of Sharpshooter Infestation Sought
Northern San Joaquin Valley farmers and agricultural commissioners went on alert this week after glassy-winged sharpshooters were found in San Jose.
Officials trapped nine adult sharpshooters and found a nymph and an egg mass in San Jose during the last two weeks. Adding to the concern, officials have been unable to locate the source of the infestation.
The sharpshooter carries the bacteria for Pierce’s disease, which chokes a plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. It has devastated vineyards in Temecula, near San Diego, and can also spread diseases to almonds, citrus and alfalfa.
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