PRESS RELEASE

FCBS SIGNS $58,000 CONTRACT TO FIGHT 'EVIL WEEVIL'

On August 28, 2000 the Florida Council of Bromeliad Societies (FCBS) signed a contract with the State of Florida. This contract will provide $58,000 for research into controlling the evil weevil (Metamasius callizona) that is spreading through Florida. About 1989 this insect was first found in the state. The weevil is native to Central America where it has a natural predator, a parasitic fly. Unfortunately, the initial introduction was healthy weevils. Uncontrolled the weevil population has rapidly expanded. In many areas of the state the native bromeliads are falling out of the trees in total devastation.

Based upon several years of investigation by Dr. Howard Frank, a University of Florida Entomologist, the FCBS has embarked upon an aggressive research program due to the rapid propagation of the destruction. Unless this weevil is controlled, all the larger bromeliads found in the state will be annihilated.

Contributions to this research are always welcome. The FCBS is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization so contributions are tax deductible. Make checks out to FCBS Weevil Fund and send to:
FCBS Weevil Fund
Florida Council of Bromeliad Societies
6616 Tuscawilla Dr.
Leesburg, FL 34748-9190

For additional information about the 'Evil Weevil' visit these links
by Dr. Howard Frank, Entomology & Nematology Department, University of Florida

https://fcbs.org/