Florida's strawberry industry faces a significant threat from the chilli thrips, an invasive pest causing extensive damage to various crops across the southern United States, including California, Texas, and Hawaii. Sriyanka Lahiri from the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences highlights the challenge of managing this pest, noting their resistance to pesticides and the potential for their populations to surge uncontrollably. The pest's impact on Florida is notable, with potential losses up to $1.2 billion from the state's $1.5 billion strawberry sector.
Chilli thrips, which originate from Southeast Asia or India, attack more than 225 types of plants, leading to discoloration, stunted growth, and significant yield losses. Not confined to strawberries, the pest also threatens a variety of fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals, underscoring the need for effective control measures to mitigate its economic impact.
Source: foxweather.com
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