Author
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Reitz, Stuart |
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Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 6/2/2008 Publication Date: 7/15/2008 Citation: Reitz, S.R. 2008. Biology and Ecology of the Western Flower Thrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae): The Making of a Pest . Meeting Abstract. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: In the past 30 years, the western flower thrips has become one of the most important agricultural pests worldwide. Certain biological attributes of this insect predispose it to be a direct pest across a wide range of crops. In addition to the direct damage it can cause, this species is an efficient vector of Tomato spotted wilt virus and other Tospoviruses. This review addresses questions regarding the biological and ecological attributes of the western flower thrips that enable it become a significant pest and make it so difficult to manage. Among these important life history traits are the western flower thrips’ polyphagy and tendency to reside and feed in concealed areas of flowers and fruits. Consequently, large populations can develop and disperse into crops. The larvae and adults feed in a similar manner and can share the same host plant resources. The relatively short generation time and haplodiploid sex determination also contribute to the pest status of this species. These life history traits interact in complex ways to make the western flower thrips one of the world’s most significant pests. |
