New Records of Predatory Bugs (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) and Their Role in Suppressing Thrips Populations in Orchards

Abstract

Field surveys conducted across major orchard ecosystems revealed previously unrecorded predatory bugs belonging to the family Anthocoridae, expanding the known diversity and distribution of natural enemies associated with thrips management. Systematic sampling using beat sheet and visual inspection techniques identified multiple species of Orius and related anthocorid taxa inhabiting mango, citrus, and guava orchards. Population assessments indicated a consistent spatial association between anthocorid abundance and declining thrips infestation levels on young flush and flowering structures. Laboratory and semi-field observations confirmed active predation, with individual predators consuming significant numbers of thrips nymphs and adults under controlled conditions. Predation efficiency was positively correlated with temperature ranges of 25–32°C and moderate humidity, suggesting strong adaptation to orchard microclimates. Statistical analyses demonstrated a significant negative relationship between predator density and thrips population growth rates, highlighting the regulatory role of anthocorids in pest suppression dynamics. Seasonal monitoring further revealed peak predator activity coinciding with critical thrips outbreak periods, reinforcing their importance as indigenous biological control agents. The documentation of new records from previously unreported orchard locations underscores gaps in regional faunal inventories and emphasizes the need for continued biodiversity assessments. Integration of anthocorid conservation strategies, including reduced pesticide application and habitat diversification, is recommended to enhance sustainable thrips management in perennial orchard systems. Findings provide baseline evidence supporting the incorporation of native predatory bugs into integrated pest management frameworks targeting thrips in tropical horticultural landscapes. These results highlight the potential of conserving native predator assemblages as a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable alternative to sole reliance on chemical control measures in orchard ecosystems.