Insights on a new thrips found in the south of Portugal associated to pitayas

Abstract: Climatic changes raise concerns about water scarcity vs agricultural production in
the southern regions of Europe. The interest on producing pitayas, or dragon-fruit (Selenicereus sp.), is increasing in the south of Portugal (Algarve region), both in greenhouses and in open field. The crop requires much less water than traditional crops and the price at which the fruits are sold constitute a good economic income for producers. In the summer 2024, a thrips species was detected there for the first time: Scopaeothrips bicolor (Hood) (Thysanoptera: Tubulifera), formerly known as Rhopalothrips bicolor. Literature places this species in the American continent, in Cactaceae, where economic losses are attributed to it in Opuntia (cactus pear) producing fields. This species is now being monitored in pitayas greenhouses in the Algarve, for bioecological data recording and evaluation of its impact on the plants. In the course of this monitoring, other potential pests are also being assessed. Information on phytosanitary issues on pitayas in the region is needed for a quick and effective control, if/ when necessary. Results of this study are presented.