Control of the Red-Banded Thrips, Selenothrips rubrocinctus Giard, on Acalypha

Abstract

The red-banded thrips, Selenothrips rubrocinctus Giard, is one of the most common and injurious species of insects attacking a large variety of plants, shrubs, and trees in our Island. This insect has been recorded from the Lesser Antilles, Virgin Islands, East Africa, and Florida. A series of host plants are recorded and the insect is described. Some insecticides were tested, mainly BHC, Endrin, DDT, and Aldrin. Each of them, when used at the rate of 1 pint of the concentrate emulsion in 100 gallons of water, is effective for the control of the pest. The spray should be applied at intervals of 2 weeks. From two to three applications effect complete control.