Methods for collecting and rearing thrips (Thysanoptera) and their natural enemies

Potential predators and parasitoids of thrips were collected as part of a project to evaluate and develop Australian native arthropod species as biological control agents against western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande). Eleven species of phytoseiid mites, the eulophid Ceranisus menes (Walker), and various anthocorid bugs were reared in the laboratory, together with F. occidentalis and the tomato thrips, Frankliniella schultzei Trybom. Methods for collecting, processing, and small‐scale rearing of both thrips and natural enemies are described. Laboratory and field‐rearing units were designed that are simple to construct, compact, escape‐proof, adaptable to a range of predators and parasitoids, and allow experimentation with various foodstuffs.