Observations on Citrus Thrips Biology and an Improved Method of Rearing Them in the Laboratory12

Biological observations of Scirtothrips citri (Moulton) indicated that an average 21.0 larvae per fertilized female hatched in 12.3 days. An average 46.7 larvae per virgin female hatched in 18.3 days. The time spent in copulation averaged 5.5 min. Males inseminated an average of at least 4.7 females in 24 hours. A new type of cage and new method of infesting and transferring larvae and adults were developed to rear citrus thrips in the laboratory on excised leaves. A rotational system of pruning to stimulate the growth of potted lemon trees held in a greenhouse provided a continuous supply of succulent leaves.