Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis)
Major thrips pest of protected crops, causing silvering, bronzing and virus transmission.
Western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) is one of the most important thrips pests in protected crops. It attacks ornamentals, salads, peppers and many other hosts, causing silvering, bronzing, scarring and flower deformation. It is also an efficient vector of tospoviruses. Biological control relies on predatory mites such as Amblyseius swirskii and Transeius montdorensis, and predatory bugs Orius spp., supported by hygiene and sticky trap monitoring.
Biological Controls for Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis)
The options below are examples of beneficial insects and biological products commonly used against western flower thrips (frankliniella occidentalis). Always refer to supplier guidance and product labels for crop safety and local registration status.
Amblyseius cucumeris + Orius laevigatus
Product: Amblyline + Oriline
Environment: glasshouse
Temperature Range: 18.0 – 32.0°C
Rate: Amblyline 50–100 mites/m²; Oriline 0.5–2 bugs/m²
Frequency: Mites preventatively; Orius top-ups every 3–4 weeks
Standard biocontrol programme for WFT in many protected crops; support with sanitation and compatible chemistry.
Related Biological Solutions
Growers dealing with western flower thrips (frankliniella occidentalis) often also monitor these pests as part of a complete IPM programme: