OPEN ACCESS | Published on : 16-Apr-2026 | Pages: 74-87 | Doi : 10.37446/edibook252025/74-87
Invasive alien insect species have emerged as a major challenge to agricultural sustainability, biodiversity, and ecosystem services in India. In recent decades, the rate of invasion has increased dramatically due to globalization, increased international trade, climate change, and anthropogenic activities. India has witnessed a sharp rise in invasive insect incursions, with more than 15 new pest species reported between 2013 and 2023 alone. These invasive pests are characterized by high reproductive potential, polyphagy, rapid dispersal, and absence of natural enemies, resulting in severe crop losses and ecological imbalance. Major invasive pests such as Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick), Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin, and Thrips parvispinus (Karny) have caused widespread economic damage to multiple crops. This chapter synthesizes the status, pathways, impacts, and management strategies of invasive insects in India, with emphasis on biosecurity, biological control, and integrated pest management (IPM).
Thrips parvispinus, globalization, invasive insects, ecological imbalance, management strategies
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