Thrips Graphical Identification Key

Thrips are in the order Thysanoptera, which means "fringed wings." Thrips are minute, slender-bodied insects 0.5-5.0 mm in length, although some tropical species are 14 mm in length. The wings may be present or absent.

Thrips are divided into two suborders: the Terebrantia and the Tubulifera. They differ in shapes of the last abdominal segment, and the presence or absence of the ovipositor in females. The Terebrantia have the last abdominal segment more or less rounded or conical, the females have a well developed ovipositor. The Tubulifera are distinguished by a tubular shape to the last abdominal segment, the females lack the ovipositor.

Thrips families in the suborder Terebrantia are separated largely by antennal characteristics. Thrips species in this suborder, the ones we are concerned with, are further separated by ocular and thoracic seta. This key is limited to thrips that are vegetable crop pests. The drawings in this key are by Dr. Tong-Xian Liu.