Thrips
Thysanoptera order
moderate risk
insect
Overview
Tiny slender insects that rasp plant surfaces to feed. Major pests of flowers, fruits, and vegetables, also transmitting viruses.
Adults 1-2mm, slender, yellowish to dark brown or black. Fringed wings. Microscopic - need hand lens to see well.
Prevention Strategies
- •Blue sticky traps for monitoring
- •Reflective mulch deters adults
- •Avoid water stress (stressed plants more susceptible)
- •Inspect flowers of new plants before purchase
Control Methods
- •Spinosad spray most effective
- •Insecticidal soap
- •Pyrethrin spray
- •Predatory mites (Amblyseius spp.) for biocontrol
- •Neem oil
Interesting Facts
- •The word 'thrips' is both singular and plural - never 'thrip' or 'thripes'
- •Some thrips are predatory and beneficial
- •A major food source for many small beneficial insects and spiders
- •Tobacco thrips can complete a generation in 7 days under ideal conditions