THRIPS SPP. RECORDED FROM COMMERCIAL FIGS, FICUS CARICA (MORACEAE), IN THE WESTERN CAPE PROVINCE OF SOUTH AFRICA

During a recent pests and disease survey on selected fig, Ficus carica (Moraceae), orchards in South Africa, internal infestation of fruit by thrips was observed.
Packed fruit which were subject to quality control prior to export were destructively sampled and again thrips infestation was noted.
The Western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis and the Onion thrips, Thrips tabaci, were found inside the fig cavity feeding on the flowers, causing the latter to discolor.
Additional to life thrips found inside the fruit cavity, fungal growth was occasionally noted.
Thrips specimen were collected and sent for positive species identification to the Biosystematics Division of the Agricultural Research Council – Plant Protection Research Institute (ARC-PPRI) in Pretoria, South Africa.

XXVIII International Horticultural Congress on Science and Horticulture for People (IHC2010): International Symposium on the Challenge for a Sustainable Production, Protection and Consumption of Mediterranean Fruits and Nuts

M. Wohlfarter, E. Venter

figs, Frankliniella occidentalis, South Africa, thrips, Thrips tabaci

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2012.940.56