Life table parameters of Thrips parvispinus under different temperatures experienced in south Florida conditions

Thrips parvispinus is an invasive species native to South Asia and has been reported in at least 30 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. In 2020, this pest was found infesting Anthurium and Hoya in Orange County, Florida. Upon its first detection, a quarantine was implemented by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services-Division of Plant Industry (FDACS-DPI) to prevent its further spread and reduce potential economic losses. Thrips parvispinus is a highly polyphagous pest with a host range that includes fruits, vegetables and ornamentals and can cause significant damage to leaves, flower buds, fruits and plant growth. Since the arrival of this pest, South Florida has been the epicenter and one of the most affected areas. However, there is no study about the response of T. parvispinus to South Florida temperatures. To understand the biology and reproduction of T. parvispinus, a life history table was conducted at 12, 17, 22, 27 and 32 °C with 70% RH and 12:12h (L:D) using bean leaf discs. Thrips parvispinus was able to complete its life cycle at 17, 22, 27 and 32 °C; but at 12 °C eggs failed to hatch. The duration of life cycle was 37.4 ± 0.7 days (±SE), 18.4± 0.2 days (±SE), 12.8 ± 0.3 days (±SE), 10.2 ± 0.2 days (±SE) at 17°C, 22°C, 27 °C, 32 °C, respectively. Information provided by the life table parameters helps to set the basis for an Integrated Pest Management program for this invasive pest.