Several species of Florida's native bromeliads are under attack by an invasive weevil called "Metamasius callizona" or as some call it the "Evil Weevil". The Florida Council of Bromeliad Societies, the University of Florida, and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services are working together in an effort to manage this pest with biological controls.

Of Florida's 16 species, 13 are not found anywhere else in the US. Florida bromeliads are quite different from the West Indian populations from which they originated from in the genetic variations of certain species found here in Florida, particulary Tillandsia fasciculata. All of Florida's native species of bromeliads are epiphytes.

Want to learn more:

I've put together some information on my website below, but the University of Florida's website has all the latest info on this threat to So. Florida. Their website is:

http://savebromeliads.ifas.ufl.edu/

Here is a link that might be useful: http://www.freewebs.com/jacksbromeliads/