Vol. 9, Special Issue 1, Part G (2025)

An extensive survey was conducted in the major chilli-growing areas in different talukas of the Anand district (Gujarat) to observe the invasive thrips’ incidence during kharif-rabi, 2022-23 and 2023-24. Invasive thrips, Thrips parvispinus (Karny) emerged as the most common damaging thrips species from the survey fields, primarily observed on chilli flowers and twigs. The incidence of T. parvispinus on chilli twigs started in the first week after transplanting and remained up to the crop duration. The pest made its appearance on chilli flowers shortly after the flowering period in October-November, and its presence persisted until the crop's end. The Umreth taluka had highest population of invasive thrips during both survey years in the Anand district. Many villages in Anand district recorded the peak thrips activity on twigs and flowers from December to April and January, respectively. Indiscriminate use of chemicals and favourable weather conditions led to the sudden outbreak of this pest. To mitigate this problem, farmers need to use IPM strategies and a sustainable management approach.