Populations of thrips and their potential natural enemies in sweet pepper greenhouses in southeast Spain

Abstract: Frankliniella occidentalis and Thrips parvispinus are significant pests affecting
pepper crops in greenhouses. Since the introduction of T. parvispinus, this species has become an increasingly severe problem in Spain. It primarily causes substantial damage to plants, including fruit and leaf deformations. In response to industry demands for effective
management, this study aims to review current control strategies. A comprehensive survey was conducted in pepper greenhouses to monitor thrips populations and their associated natural enemies. The presence of Lobularia maritima within greenhouses, as well as shrubby field margins nearby, was examined as potential factors influencing these populations on the crop. The findings indicate that both thrips and natural enemy populations are affected by these structural elements. Fruit and leaf deformities were more pronounced in their absence.
Moreover, T. parvispinus populations were higher in greenhouses lacking them. Among the
natural enemies identified, Orius species were the most abundant. These observations provide valuable insights to enhance current biological control strategies against thrips.