Hosts plants of Megalurothrips usitatus (Bagnall, 1913) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Cuba
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Abstract
The study of thrips host plants is crucial for pest management in agricultural systems. This study aimed to identify the plant species that act as hosts for Megalurothrips usitatus in Cuba. The research was conducted in bean farming systems and adjacent areas in ten Cuban provinces. Leaf and flower samples were collected from plants with the insect present and transferred to the laboratory for processing. Taxonomic identification of thrips was performed through slide mounts and microscopic observation, while plant species were identified based on specialists and scientific literature. The main result was 58 host plant species, grouped into 23 botanical families, with Fabaceae, Asteraceae, and Cucurbitaceae being the most representative. The interaction occurred mainly in flowers, where different stages of the insect were observed. It was concluded that M. usitatus is a polyphagous pest with a wide range of hosts, including economically important crops and weeds. This knowledge is essential for designing management strategies that consider controlling surrounding vegetation and preceding crops, in order to reduce sources of infestation and minimize the pest's impact.
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