Applying biocontrol for weed management in USACE ecosystem restoration—release, persistence, and impact data of Brazilian peppertree thrips (Pseudophilothrips ichini) for control of Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolia) in south Texas

<jats:p>This dataset presents four years (2022-2026) of field-release and impact assessment data for the Brazilian peppertree thrips (Pseudophilothrips ichini), an insect biological control agent released to suppress the invasive tree species Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolia) across multiple sites in South and Coastal Texas. The dataset includes release site locations and timelines, thrips population persistence and patterns, and tree metrics (i.e., flowering, fruit production, growth, etc.) from replicated release and control trees at USACE project sites in Brownsville and Galveston, TX as well as US Forest Service supported efforts in Port Aransas, TX. Data were collected through systematic in situ sampling for thrips population monitoring and tree surveys at release and control sites. This multi-year, multi-site dataset documents the establishment and impact of biological control for invasive weed management in USACE aquatic ecosystem restoration projects, evaluating thrips as a tool for Brazilian peppertree control in south Texas riparian and wetland restoration contexts. Results inform adaptive management strategies and support the integration of biological control into ecosystem restoration design and monitoring protocols across the Gulf Coast and South Texas regions.</jats:p>