Frankliniella gossypiana (Morgan)

Skarlinsky Ii, Thomas L., 2024, The identification of the flower thrips, Frankliniella Karny (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) intercepted at U. S. ports of entry, Insecta Mundi 2024 (39), pp. 1-64 : 41

Frankliniella gossypiana (Morgan) ( Fig. 34)

Diagnosis. The absence of microtrichia on the upper surface of the hind coxae of F. gossypiana seems to be the only reliable way to separate this North American described species from the similar South American congeners F. gemina Bagnall and F. suramericana . Both F. gemina and F. suramericana possess microtrichia on the upper hind coxae.

Distinguishing features. Color. Body, forewings, and legs pale ( Fig. 34A). Pigmented ventral eye facets with the 1-1-2 pattern. Structure. Antennal segment VIII about 2.5 times as long as wide. Head with the PO1 setae, OC3 setae in position 2B ( Fig. 34B). Pronotum usually with 4 mAM ( Fig. 34B). Upper surface of the hind coxae without microtrichia. Abdominal sternite II usually with at least one discal setae ( Fig. 34C). Abdominal tergite posteromarginal VIII comb complete ( Fig. 34D). Abdominal tergite IX, B1 setae usually less than 100 µm.

Interception frequency. Uncommon.

Region(s) of interceptions. North America, Central America and the Caribbean.