D3449: Using Brazilian Peppertree thrips as a biological control agent: Managing the spread of an invasive species in the United States

The Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi, or BPT) is an invasive tree species in the United States that has been found in sprawling populations along the Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida, California, and Hawaii. This species is known for its prolific nature, immense seed production, and resilience to a variety of ecological conditions. The Brazilian peppertree thrips (Pseudophilothrips ichini Hood), a native species from Brazil, is a known natural enemy of BPT. The thrips feed primarily on the tender new growth and early-stage flowers of the tree. Both nymph and adult stages of the thrips are known to feed on the plant material, thus causing major damage to young shoots and new growth. Currently, USDA Insect Management and Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory has visited 306 sites with confirmed presence of BPT in the LRGV, with six sites selected across Hidalgo, Willacy, and Cameron Counties for release with four associated control sites. BPT metrics include height, width, depth, branch thickness, emergent leaf count, as well as flower and seed staging. P. ichini releases initiated in May 2023 consist of releasing 5000-10000 Thrips at a preselected field site, and consequent data being collected every 30 days to evaluate thrips efficacy, spread, and establishment. Data collected will improve our understanding of the efficacy of P. ichini as a biological control agent of BPT in the LRGV.