Background: Ultraviolet (UV) interferes with the vision, flight initiation, dispersal, host, and population dispersion of herbivorous insects. Hence, UV-blocking film has recently been developed as one of the most potential tools to control pests under tropical greenhouse conditions. In this study, we investigated the effects of UV-blocking film on the population dynamics of Thrips palmi Karny and the growth status of Hami melon (Cucumis melo var. reticulatus) in greenhouses.
Results: By comparing thrips populations in greenhouses covered with UV-blocking films with those covered with ordinary polyethylene films, we found that the UV-blocking film effectively reduced the thrips population within 1 week and continued to control the population, meanwhile the quality and yield of melon in UV-blocking greenhouses also had a substantial increase.
Conclusion: The UV-blocking film remarkably inhibited the population growth of thrips and greatly improved the yield of Hami melon cultivated in UV-blocking greenhouse compared with the control greenhouse. Overall, UV-blocking film is a very powerful potential tool for green pest control in the field, enhancing the quality of tropical fruits, and providing a new wind vane for sustainable green agriculture in the future. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Keywords: Hami melon; Thrips palmi; pest control; ultraviolet.
© 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.