Cryptophilous
Guides
Thripidae
Common Thrips
Thripidae is the most species-rich family of thrips, comprising over 290 genera and approximately 2,000 species. Members are characterized by derived morphological traits including a downward-curving saw-like ovipositor, narrow wings with two longitudinal veins, and antennae bearing six to ten antennomeres with stiletto-like forked sense cones on segments III and IV. The family is divided into four subfamilies: Thripinae (227 genera), Panchaetothripinae (38 genera), Dendrothripinae (16 genera), and Sericothripinae (11 genera). Many species are economically significant agricultural pests, with some exhibiting invasive characteristics.