Biochemical and metabolic responses of cotton variety <scp>XLZ54</scp> to <scp> <i>Thrips tabaci</i> </scp> and screening of resistance characterization indicators

This study indicates that XLZ54 has the highest resistance to T. tabaci, and this is closely related to its low nutrient content and its high amounts of insect-resistant substances such as flavonoids, total phenols, gossypol, and tannins after damage. In addition, the seven indicators mentioned above can serve as characterization indices for evaluating the resistance of cotton to T. tabaci, providing a basis for future breeding of cotton varieties resistant to T. tabaci. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.