Occurrence and Damage by Thrips on Greenhouse-Cultivated Fig

This study was conducted to assess the occurrence and damages by thrips on greenhouse-cultivated fig in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, Korea. We identified the collected species as Thrips tabaci Lindeman, Frankliniella occidentalis Pergande, and F. intonsa Trybom. The density of thrips in the greenhouses during the summer months was monitored using yellow sticky traps; T. tabaci showed the highest density, followed by F. occidentalis and F. intonsa. The damages by thrips were characterized by stunted plant growth because of delayed discoloration of the pericarp, and development of rough fruit surface. Stereomicroscopic observation on the fruit flesh revealed the growth of gray mold at the damaged area, as well as the dead bodies and exuviae of thrips. The rates of fig fruit damages per month, were 18.2%, 9.7%, 2.9%, and 1.3% in July, August, September, and October, respectively.