Moericke traps help control thrips in strawberries.

Thrips are among the main pests of strawberry crops, causing damage ranging from reduced productivity to loss of commercial fruit quality. Attacks by nymphs and adults cause bronzing of the surface of green and ripe fruits, also compromising post-harvest storage.

As an alternative for pest management in organic, conventional, and integrated production systems, Moericke-type traps are becoming established as an efficient tool. To broaden access to this technology, the Epagri Experimental Station in Caçador (EECD) has developed a technical brochure, available for free download, with guidelines on the construction, installation, and maintenance of these traps.

According to Epagri, chemical control of thrips has limitations, mainly due to its potential impact on pollinators, which can result in lower production and fruits with inferior commercial classification. In this context, Moericke traps become relevant, especially in semi-hydroponic systems conducted in a protected environment.

The traps consist of trays or containers — square, rectangular, or round — filled with a solution of water and detergent. The most important aspect is the color of the container: blue, which exerts a strong attraction on insects.

Studies conducted by EECD researchers indicated that light blue paint is more effective at capturing thrips compared to intermediate and dark blue paints. The brochure explains how to obtain this appropriate shade, as well as detailing the preparation of the solution, the size and spacing of the containers in cultivation, and the procedures for cleaning and renewing the traps.

The publication is authored by researchers Janaína Pereira dos Santos, Juracy Caldeira Lins Junior, Janice Valmorbida, Anderson Fernando Wamser, and Guilherme Mallmann.