Developing Management for Chilli Thrips in Citrus Under Protected Screen Production Systems
Posted August 2025
Researchers: Lauren Diepenbrock, Megan Dewdney
Contact: Lauren Diepenbrock, UF/IFAS CREC ldiepenbrock@ufl.edu
Summary:
The citrus under protected screen (CUPS) production environment has provided growers the ability to produce high-quality citrus fruits in regions impacted by huanglongbing (HLB). Over time, however, pest management needs have become apparent within this system, including the need for information regarding chilli thrips seasonality and available management options. Chilli thrips are small, migratory, invasive insects that will feed on young foliage and developing fruit. The damage to fruit leaves silver scarring similar to that seen by broad mites and renders the fruit unmarketable. Over 2 years, we have documented the influx and establishment of chilli thrips into and throughout commercial CUPS structures. Our data suggest that most of the chilli thrips population is comprised of not year-round residents of CUPS, but rather largely comprised of a spring migration into CUPS concurrent with spring exterior weed development. Chilli thrips then drift through the CUPS screen and establish on available weeds, moving into citrus to feed, but not likely using citrus as a reproductive host. Once chilli thrips have established on the edges of CUPS, they migrate throughout the structure, damaging fruit and young leaves well into the interior of the structure. To date, growers who have adopted regular weed management both inside of their CUPS and in the adjacent fields have noted a significant reduction of damage from chilli thrips to their crop. In addition to this work, we are in the process of screening available insecticides that can be incorporated into a broader management plan.
Take Home Message:
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Chilli thrips are pests in CUPS and require management to protect fruit aesthetic.
