Evaluation of Garlic Genotypes for Resistance to Thrips tabaci Lindeman

Abstract

Nine genotypes of garlic were evaluated for their reaction to Thrips tabaci Lindeman under natural infestation and for host plant traits. Amongst genotypes, UHF G12-2 exhibited resistant reaction; G-282 and PGS-204 were found to be moderately resistant and G- 384, G-189, Bhima purple, PGVK-07 and G-304 were susceptible. The relationship between infestation and among leaf angle (r = -0.897**) and total phenol content (r= -0.836**) showed a significant negative correlation. Leaf damage revealed a weak negative correlation with leaf angle (r= -0.483) and total phenol content (r= -0.303). The plant height and number of leaves revealed a significant negative correlation with thrips damage (r= -0.796*) and nonsignificant negative one with thrips density. Total chlorophyll content showed a non-significant negative correlation with thrips density (r= -0.278) and damage (r= -0.597). Thus, the garlic cultivar UHF G 12-2 could be a promising genotype with resistance/ tolerance, having higher phenol content, total chlorophyll and bulb yield.