First Report Of Chili Thrips, Scirtothrips Oligochaetus (Karny) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) Infesting Pomegranate (Punica Granatum L.) In Gujarat, India

A severe infestation of chilli thrips, Scirtothrips oligochaetus (Karny), was recorded in pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) orchards at the Horticulture Farm, AAU, Anand, where the pest has emerged as a major threat due to its sap-sucking and lacerating feeding behaviour. Both nymphs and adults feed on tender floral parts flowers, buds and young fruits causing discoloration, flower drop, scarring, malformation and reduced market quality. Owing to its polyphagous nature and wide host range, S. oligochaetus poses a risk of spreading to other economically important crops, underscoring the need for continuous surveillance. The present study investigated the population dynamics of S. oligochaetus during 2024-2025 and correlated its seasonal abundance with prevailing weather parameters. Two major population peaks were observed in February and September. Morning relative humidity showed a significant positive correlation with thrips abundance, while maximum temperature exhibited a weak positive relationship. Minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall were negatively correlated with the pest population. The findings highlight February and September as critical periods for S. oligochaetus proliferation, emphasizing the importance of timely monitoring and strategic pest management to minimize crop damage and yield loss.