First damage caused by Chaetanaphothrips orchidii (Moulton) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), orchid thrips, in citrus in Spain

Abstract

Chaetanaphothrips orchidii (Moulton) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), known as orchid thrips, citrus rust thrips or Anthurium thrips, is a species typical of tropical and subtropical areas that currently has a cosmopolitan distribution having colonized ornamental crops in greenhouses in temperate or cold areas (zur Strassen, 2003). It is a very polyphagous species that is considered important pest of banana, citrus and ornamental crops. Orchid thrips attacks all citrus species, especially Navel oranges, Valencia and red grapefruit varieties (Childers and Stansly, 2005). It is considered an important citrus pest in Florida. In the last decade, severe damage has been caused to citrus orchards in northwestern Argentina (Goane et al, 2013). It is present in Europe through multiple introductions in greenhouse crops (zur Strassen 2003). This species has been reported in Spain as being associated with the ornamental cultivation of Anthurium, indicating the possibility of becoming a pest species of floral crops. However, there was no evidence of damage to citrus crops.