Evaluation of IPM module against onion thrips, Thrips tabaci

摘要

Onion (Allium cepa L.) is an important export-oriented vegetable among the cultivated Allium in India, It is grown in Rabi, Kharif as well as late Kharif seasons with maximum area of 60% in Rabi alone. Onion thrips (Thrips tabaci Lindeman) is a pest in commercially produced onion and causes significant yield loss globally (Lewis, 1997). Extensive feeding by onion thrips not only results in plant stunting and reduced bulb weight, but it also predisposes onion plants to various fungal and bacterial pathogens that further decrease yield. Onion thrips also transmits Iris yellow spot virus (IYSV) (Bunyaviridae: Tospovirus), which further exacerbates the damage they cause and can ultimately result in complete crop failure. The key to minimizing losses caused by onion thrips will involve the combination of cultural and chemical controls that suppress onion thrips populations and reduce feeding damage. Srinivas and Lawande (2004) also reported that T. tabaci is now treated as the major production constraint of onion at the national level in India. The present study was carried out to recognize the effectiveness of IPM module against onion thrips.