An outbreak of gall inducing thrips Gynaikothrips uzeli Zimmermann (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) on Ficus benjamina Linn. in central India

Abstract

An outbreak of gall inducing thrips Gynaikothrips uzeli Zimmermann (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) was observed on weeping fig, Ficus benjamina Linn. during March- April 2014. Average 16 adult thrips per gall was recorded. Leaf galls are induced by larvae and adults, which feed only on young leaves, causing leaves to fold and/or curl. Feeding by thrips permanently damages the newly developing leaves, causing cell hypertrophy and tissue hyperplasia resulting in completely mar the beauty of plants. Average 45% leaves/plant was found damaged with Gynaikothrips uzeli. Some associated insects- thrips Gigantothrips sp, anthocorid bug Mantandoniola sp., parasitoids belonging to Eulophidae family have also been recorded from G. uzeli population infesting F. benjamina. G. uzeli might have came along with planting material and now become major threat to the plants in central India. A close watch is needed to curb the rising invasion of G. uzeli on F. benjamina. This report assumes great importance as no reports have been dealt with the new geographic area of infestation by G. uzeli.