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It is a new species of insect that is damaging the chilli crop in several states in south India.
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It is an invasive insect species from Indonesia. It was first discovered in India in 2015.
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The insect species is affecting the plants at the flowering stage and stunting the growth of fruits.
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Each female Thrips lays eggs through Parthenogenesis (without requiring the male) and sucks the sap of leaf, flower and also the fruit, causing extensive damage to the crop within no time
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Reason of spread: The indiscriminate use of pesticides by farmers, knowingly or unknowingly, has been the main reason for this insect developing resistance to pesticides and their ‘natural enemies’ in the field being terminated.
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Solution: Scientists are advising farmers to implement integrated pest management practices like spraying neem oil and using bio-pesticides as an immediate remedy.