E-Thesis 316 views
Optimising the impact of semiochemicals and visual cues for improved monitoring and control of the Western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis / ALEXANDER DEARDEN
Swansea University Author: ALEXANDER DEARDEN
DOI (Published version): 10.23889/SUthesis.63589
Abstract
The Western flower thrips (WFT), Frankliniella occidentalis, ranks among the most important crop pests worldwide. Their minute size (<1.4mm), cryptic nature and profound ability to develop insecticide resistance contribute to their extensive pest status. Effective trapping using visual and chemic...
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Swansea, Wales, UK
2023
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| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Doctoral |
| Degree name: | Ph.D |
| Supervisor: | Butt, Tariq. and Loveridge, Joel. |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa63589 |
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| Abstract: |
The Western flower thrips (WFT), Frankliniella occidentalis, ranks among the most important crop pests worldwide. Their minute size (<1.4mm), cryptic nature and profound ability to develop insecticide resistance contribute to their extensive pest status. Effective trapping using visual and chemical attractants plays an important role in monitoring WFT, which is central to the success of integrated pest management (IPM) programmes. Direct control using sticky traps and attractants for mass trapping is not yet sufficient. Previously, most studies have evaluated individual attractants rather than combinations and a systemic approach to colour preference was lacking. The overall aim of this thesis was to identify new attractant combinations and methods for optimising sticky trap capture of WFT. Firstly, combinations of WFT attractants p- Anisaldehyde and verbenone (1:1) were best suited for trap capture compared to use as individual attractants. Secondly, a novel approach to sticky trap design and colour preference using a visual modelling approach was developed. This enabled the identification of a blue hue that was optimal for trapping WFT compared to the commercially available trap colour, which was validated under field conditions. Finally, it was shown using Y-tube olfactometry that habituation can impact the attractiveness of WFT attractants, highlighting the importance of further study. The project has clearly demonstrated methods to further improve trap capture of WFT. The findings presented could contribute to improved WFT monitoring systems and control via mass trapping. Additionally, the visual modelling approach presented could be straightforwardly extended to optimise trapping of other important pests. |
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| Keywords: |
Western flower thrips, Insect pest management, Visual modelling, Semiochemicals, Crop protection |
| College: |
Faculty of Science and Engineering |