MORPHOLOGICAL CONFIRMATION OF THE INVASIVE SOUTHEAST ASIANTHRIPS, Thrips parvispinus (Karny) INFESTING CHILLI IN TELANGANA, INDIA

Abstract

The invasive Southeast Asian thrips, Thrips parvispinus (Karny) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), has recently emerged as serious invasive pest in chilli causing significant economic loss through severe damage to leaves, flowers, and fruits. Taxonomic confirmation is essential for distinguishing this invasive species from morphologically similar thrips species thrips species and also important for implementing effective integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. The present study was undertaken to confirm the taxonomic identity of T. parvispinus in major chilli-growing districts of Telangana through roving survey during kharif, 2023. Thrips samples were collected from infested leaves, flowers and fruits. Further, permanent slide mounts were prepared and identified using standard taxonomic keys. Based on the taxonomic characters the species was confirmed and diagnosed as T. parvispinus. The taxonomic confirmation from three zones (Northern, Central and Southern) highlight its successful establishment and adaptation to different agro-climatic conditions of the state. This information provides essential foundation for continuing research on its population demographic studies which include population count, dynamics, associated natural enemies and competitive displacement ability for developing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.