Resistance to western flower thrips in greenhouse cucumber : effect of leaf position and plant age on thrips reproduction

Abstract

Three greenhouse cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) accessions, previously selected for low levels of damage after infestation with Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), were tested for resistance against F. occidentalis in a no-choice greenhouse experiment at the mature plant stage. The three accessions showed a strong reduction in thrips damage compared to the susceptible control. The effects of leaf position and plant age of the four cucumber accessions on the reproduction of F. occidentalis were determined in a leaf disc assay. Leaf position had a significant effect on thrips reproduction, whereas plant age, within the test range, had not. In general, reproduction was higher on young leaves. Reproduction as measured on leaf discs from certain leaf positions was strongly correlated with resistance of mature plants in the greenhouse, and can therefore be used as a quick test to screen cucumber accessions for resistance against thrips.