Collaborative, Rapid-Response Research and Extension Efforts for Management of an Invasive Thrips Species, Megalurothrips usitatus (Bagnall)

Abstract

Florida snapbean production ranks first in the United States, contributing to more than one-third of the national production. In January 2020, Megalurothrips usitatus (Bagnall) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), Asian bean thrips, was first detected in Homestead, FL by Glades Crop Care, Inc. and identified by FDACS as a new pest to the continental U.S. Impacted snapbean growers in Miami-Dade County reported 30% losses (estimated at $1,620 per acre), which could total more than $33 million with similar losses across southern Florida. As a pest of other legumes, M. usitatus has the potential to negatively impact growers across the southeastern U.S. A rapid-response extension program led by University ofFlorida/IFAS (UF/IFAS) faculty and extension agents was developed in partnership with commercial crop consultants and growers. Meetings were organized to train growers, scouts, and extension agents, and to foster information sharing across farms and production areas. A regional scouting effort was initiated that covered 25 farms in Palm Beach, Hendry, and Collier Counties to monitor population level dynamics, detect potential alternative hosts, and identify effective grower management practices during the 2020-2021 season. Lab and field pesticide efficacy trials began. A website was developed to provide timely insights from research efforts along with weekly updates of M. usitatus population levels throughout the scouted region. This presentation will highlight knowledge gained from the first year of the rapid-response effort. Discussion will include the successes and challenges faced, expansion and improvements to be made for the upcoming season, and takeaways for future collaborative, rapid-response efforts.