Thrips palmi

Definition

A species of thrips in the family Thripidae, order Thysanoptera, commonly known as the melon thrips. A polyphagous pest of tropical and subtropical crops, it feeds on leaf and fruit tissues of cucurbits, solanaceous vegetables, and ornamentals, causing silvering, distortion, and transmitting tospoviruses. Native to South Asia, it has spread to the Americas, Africa, and the Pacific, making it a significant invasive species in greenhouse and field agriculture.

Etymology

Example

Thrips palmi infestations in watermelon fields are recognized by the distinctive silvery scarring on developing fruits and the presence of dark frass spots on undersides of leaves.

Synonyms

• Melon thrips

Related Terms

• Thysanoptera
• Thripidae
• Thrips
• tospovirus
• polyphagy
• invasive pest
• silvering damage

Usage Notes

The common name 'melon thrips' is shared with other Thrips species regionally; precise identification requires examination of morphological characters such as antennal segments and wing setae. In quarantine contexts, Thrips palmi is a regulated pest in many countries due to its rapid spread and virus transmission capability.