Modelling the spatial behavior of Frankliniella occidentalis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in growing avocado

Abstract

Avocado (Lauraceae: Persea americana Mill.) is a cropof great economic importance for Mexico in terms of perennialproduction systems, since in recent years the marketing of this fruithas increased markedly at national and international levels. In 2013,168113.64 ha were cultivated in Mexico, with an average yield of 10.2ton/ha, obtaining a production of approximately 1467837.35 ton.Like any other fruit can suffer damage from pests (insects, nematodes,mites etc.) and diseases (caused by fungi, bacteria and viruses). In thisregard, one of the most problematic insects is Frankliniella occidentalis,which causes significant crop losses, feeding preferably on softtissues such as leaf buds, flowers, young leaves and developing fruits.The most severe damage, economically speaking, is notorious at firstglance, and that it causes ridges or bumps on the pericarp, and theselesions are more apparent as the fruit ripens. The aim of this studywas to model the spatial distribution of Frankliniella occidentalis usinggeostatistical techniques and density maps obtained by kriging. Thesamplings were carried out fortnightly in three commercial plots offour acres each in the town of Coatepec Harinas, State of Mexico usingthe method of quadrants. The results indicated that the spatial distributionof populations of F. occidentalis was aggregated in each of thesampling distribution dates; cross-values validation semivariogramscorroborated that information, and also a high spatial dependence.The maps obtained allowed to define infested areas and areas free ofdamage, thus establishing control measures at specific points in eachplot to make an efficient use of pesticides.