Abstract
Adults, first and second larval stages of Frankliniella bispinosa (Morgan), and F. kelliae Sakimura, feed and oviposit within floral parts of citrus in Florida. Their biology, host plants, including pest status on several agricultural commodities, distribution and feeding damage to citrus flowers are presented. Field experiments have shown that thrips, primarily F.bispinosa, reduce fruit set and yield on both navel and 'Valencia' oranges by feeding damage. Four field experiments to control thrips and/or protect flowers from postbloom fruit drop disease and subsequent impact on fruit set are presented.
