Chilli Thrips E-Learning Module Released!

The National Plant Diagnostic Network is pleased to announce the release of the chilli thrips e-learning module. Chilli thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis, has been an emerging pest issue in Florida and other southern U.S. states since 2005. This new invasive pest has an extremely wide host range, attacking more than 40 plant families. Chilli thrips has been particularly problematic on ornamental plants, but agronomic crops, such as peppers, blueberries, strawberries, cotton and peanuts are also at risk.

The chilli thrips e-learning module will provide learners with an introduction to the distribution, life history, and pest status potential for chilli thrips, in the U.S.

Upon completing this module you will:
• Be familiar with the origin and current status of chilli thrips in the U.S.
• Be familiar with damage symptoms.
• Understand the life cycle of chilli thrips.
• Know general management options.
• Be familiar with local resources for obtaining management recommendations.
• Understand thrips sampling techniques.
• Know how to submit a thrips sample to an appropriate diagnostic laboratory.

In order to view the chilli thrips e-learning module, go to http://cbc.at.ufl.edu/ and click on ‘take the online modules’. If you do not have an account set up with the National Plant Diagnostic Network, you will need to do so in order to view this module along with others on the site. The website contains simple instructions for creating your account.

The chilli thrips e-learning module includes a post-test. As of March 2010, a ‘certificate of completion’ for the chilli thrips module will be available for download once the module has been completed at the 70% level or higher.

Please direct questions regarding the NPDN e-learning program to Amanda Hodges achodges@ufl.edu.

The chilli thrips training module was developed by Amanda Hodges, Lance Osborne, Howard Beck (University of Florida/IFAS), and Scott Ludwig (Texas AgriLife Extension Service)