Evaluation of sticky traps and insecticides to prevent gall induction by Gynaikothrips uzeli Zimmerman (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) on Ficus benjamina.

Background: Gynaikothrips uzeli Zimmerman was first detected in North America from galls on weeping fig (Ficus benjamina L.) in 2003. It has been reported from ten states in the continental United States, Hawaii, Trinidad and Costa Rica. Adult thrips induce leaves to fold permanently along the midvein, making it a significant pest of weeping fig. Studies were initiated to determine monitoring methods and establish control recommendations.

Results: Comparison of captures of adult G. uzeli on blue, yellow, white and green sticky traps found yellow to be the most effective color. Yellow traps were effective for capturing adult Thripastichus gentilei (del Guercio), a larval parasitoid of G. uzeli. Thrips were first captured around 10:00 h. Captures peaked around 15:00-16:00 h and typically ceased by 21:00 h. Systemic neonicotinoid insecticides applied to container media were ineffective against adult G. uzeli feeding on foliage, and foliar applications of these products provided < or =7 days control. Conventional products provided satisfactory control after 1 day, but efficacy declined thereafter. Bifenthrin provided > or = 14 days residual control of adults.

Conclusion: This paper represents the first report of monitoring phlaeothripids with sticky traps. Data from multiple trials suggest that products effective against other thrips have limited use against G. uzeli.