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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Fort Pierce, Florida » U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory » Subtropical Insects and Horticulture Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #310896
Title: Predator-In-First: A novel biocontrol strategy for managing thrips and other key pests in pepper crops

Author
item KUMAR, VIVEK - University Of Florida
item XIAO, YINGGANG - University Of Florida
item McKenzie, Cindy
item OSBORNE, LANCE - University Of Florida

Submitted to: Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/7/2014
Publication Date: 11/19/2014
Citation: Kumar, V., Xiao, Y., McKenzie, C.L., Osborne, L.S. 2014. Predator-In-First: A novel biocontrol strategy for managing thrips and other key pests in pepper crops [Abstract]. Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, November 16-19, Portland, Oregon

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Predator-In-First (PIF) is a novel biological-based approach for sustainable control of thrips and other key pests that threaten pepper production in protected and outdoor culture. In the current study pepper plants were used as a model crop system and the key component of this method involves the release of specific predatory mites (Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot) on un-infested seedlings before transplanting. PIF approach aims to establish biological control in the critical post-transplanting period. This is significant because natural enemies generally do not establish until later in the season when thrips or other pest’s population have built up. PIF utilizes the characteristics of generalist predatory mites which can feed and reproduce on host plant pollen/nectar in the absence of their prey.