PROTEÇÃO DE PLANTAS DE MELANCIA CONTRA TRIPES ATRAVÉS DE NOVAS MOLÉCULAS QUÍMICAS E SEU EFEITO NA PRODUTIVIDADE

Abstract

Watermelon cultivation (Citrullus lanatus) faces significant phytosanitary challenges, especially due to thrips (Thysanoptera) attacks, pests that cause direct damage and act as virus vectors, severely compromising productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of Joiner and Joiner Pro insecticides (isocicloseram technology) compared to market standards for thrips control. The trial was conducted during the 2025 season, using an experimental design with seven treatments, including foliar and drench applications. The methodology encompassed monitoring pest population density, quantifying virus incidence at 27 days after transplanting (DAT), and analyzing productive and qualitative parameters at harvest (82 DAT). The results evidenced the superiority of isocicloseram technology, while traditional standards showed a total decline in efficacy at the end of the cycle (0% at 5 DAA3). Joiner and Joiner Pro treatments maintained 100% control, achieving a high-efficiency ranking. This prolonged protection correlated with the lowest virus incidence (26% in T6) and a significant increase in productivity, notably in treatment T7, which reached 45.18 tons/ha and larger-sized fruits (averaging 11.85 kg in the G category). Furthermore, an improvement in chemical quality was observed, with soluble solids content reaching 30º Brix. It is concluded that isocicloseram represents a highly effective tool for thrips management, providing productive stability and higher commercial value fruits through superior residual control.