Evaluation of Amblyseius swirskii (predatory mite) and Orius leavigatus as biological control agents of chilli thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis)

Chilli thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood) is the most important pest and cause leaf curl complex in chilli. Farmers misuse pesticides for control; leading to resistant development, high residue levels, and environmental pollution. Laboratory experiments using Amblyseius swirskii and Orius leavigatus Fieber in combination reduced the thrips population significantly after two weeks. Reduction of biological agents population was statistically significant after 04 weeks and 03 weeks in Amblyseius swirskii and Orius leavigatus respectively. Thus, combined use of Amblyseius swirskii and Orius leavigatus effectively controlled thrips, but the biological agents did not multiply though bee’s honey was provided as alternate food source.