Thrips
Thrips (Thrips sp. ) are sap-feeding insects that infest host plants at vegetative, fruiting and post-harvest stage. The insect is usually pale yellow in color with dark segments on antennae.
What are the symptoms
Feeding marks initially result in silvery tiny wounds that turn into bronze scars on the surface of midribs and veins of leaves, and brownish streaks on the surface of the fruits.
In Mango, damage on flowers due to excessive feeding may result in discoloration and malformed panicles
Impact to the crop
Thrips can transmit several viruses such as Tomato spotted wilt virus, Melon yellow spot virus, Capsicum chlorosis virus, bean mosaic virus.
Thrips damage on developing cabbage heads may reduce the quality of harvest (cosmetic value)
In Mango, damage to developing flowers and panicles can result in malformation or reduced development of fruits. Damage on fruits results in fruit scars on the skin which reduces fruit quality.
How to control
√ Biological control using natural enemies may help to prevent resurgence of thrips.
√ Apply chemicals that are registered and effective in controlling thrips.
Source :CABI Datasheet. 2020. Thrips palmi (melon thrips). Retrieved from https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/53745
