In Spain, Thrips parvispinus threatens pepper production

Fierce fight in Almería (Spain) to protect pepper production against Thrips parvispinus. The Official College of Agronomic Technical Engineers of Almería (COITAAL) has issued an alert regarding the growing threat posed by Thrips parvispinus to pepper crops in the province of Almería, Hortoinfo report. This threat jeopardizes the production of an essential element of the Spanish agricultural economy, while almost 70% of peppers exported from Spain come from the fields of Almería. Thrips parvispinus, native to Southeast Asia, is distinguished by its larger size and darker color than that of Thrips Frankliniella occidentalis, sometimes reaching absolute black. Its devastating attacks hinder plant growth, cause abortion of buds and flowers, and deform apical shoots. Early identification of this pest is crucial for implementing effective control measures. Faced with this growing threat, COITAAL has developed an exhaustive guide covering the identification, prevention and control of ...