Citrus thrips

Systematic position: Chaetanaphothrips leeuweni belongs to the order Thysanoptera and the family Thripidae. This species is recognized as a dangerous pest, posing a significant threat to protected cultivation environments, ornamental plants, and various tropical crops within greenhouse systems.

Host crops: This pest exhibits broad polyphagy, yet it is particularly notorious for damaging citrus crops by feeding on the developing fruit. Additionally, its host list includes various ornamental greenhouse plants, such as anthuriums, various orchid species, and other exotic tropical foliage plants.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle of this thrips species includes the egg stage, two larval instars, propupa, pupa, and adult. Females deposit eggs directly into plant tissues. The population growth is heavily influenced by temperature and humidity levels; under favorable greenhouse conditions, the pest can complete multiple generations per year, leading to rapid population outbreaks.

Nature of damage and economic impact: By feeding on plant cell contents, these thrips cause characteristic tissue deformation and the appearance of silvery or bronzed patches on fruits and leaves. Damage to citrus fruit surfaces results in necrotic lesions that severely reduce market quality, leading to substantial financial losses for commercial growers.

Control measures: Effective management requires an integrated strategy.

• Deployment of sticky traps for active monitoring.
• Application of systemic insecticides when infestation thresholds are exceeded.
• Implementation of strict quarantine protocols for imported plant material.
• Biological control through the release of natural enemies, such as predatory mites or bugs.