Aeolothripidae

Definition

A family of thrips (order Thysanoptera) characterized by predatory or omnivorous habits; adults and larvae typically inhabit flowers, while pupation occurs in soil or ground litter. Members range from the Holarctic through drier subtropical regions, with notable diversity in Australia. Many species are facultative predators, consuming other arthropods as well as floral tissues.

Etymology

From the type genus Aeolothrips (Greek Aeolus, god of winds, + thrips, 'woodworm') + -idae (family suffix).

Example

The banded thrips Aeolothrips fasciatus (Aeolothripidae) is used in biocontrol programs against spider mites in greenhouses.

Related Terms

• Thysanoptera
• Thripidae
• Phlaeothripidae
• predatory thrips
• Flower thrips
• frankliniella

Usage Notes

Distinguished from the predominantly phytophagous family Thripidae by broader mandibles adapted for predation and the terrestrial pupal stage. Some species are economically important as biocontrol agents; others may damage crops by feeding on pollen or floral tissues.