New strategies to improve the use of the predatory bug, Orius insidiosus, to control Western Flower Thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis, in greenhouse ornamental crops

Successful use of biological control agents for thrips control has been documented in greenhouse vegetables, such as sweet peppers, but thus far has provided inconsistent results for ornamentals. The proposed research will investigate how to improve the performance of the biological control agent – O. insidiosus biocontrol, against western flower thrips through the use of banker plants and adding supplemental food to promote a more sustainable management strategy. The project complements previous thrips research and will contribute to increased greenhouse production and profitability. Additionally, while the proposed research is targeted towards floriculture, there may be applicable uses for control in greenhouse vegetable and field crops as well.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Cynthia Scott-Dupree

Student:

Meghann Waite

Partner:

Eco Habitat Agri Services

Discipline:

Environmental sciences

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

University of Guelph