Black Vine Thrips
Scientific group or name: Thrips species associated with vines
Overview
Black vine thrips is a descriptive name applied to dark thrips associated with grapevine damage. Because common names are inconsistent, specimens should be identified before management decisions are made.
Host plants
Grapevines and other susceptible hosts.
Identification
Adults are minute, narrow and dark-coloured. Microscopic examination of antennae, wings and abdominal structures may be required.
Damage and symptoms
Feeding on buds, young leaves, flowers or fruit can cause silvering, scarring and distorted growth.
Lifecycle and favourable conditions
Sheltered buds and warm conditions can favour early establishment before growth opens.
Monitoring
Inspect buds and young shoots using a hand lens and tap material over a pale tray. Retain specimens for confirmation.
Management
Remove severe hotspots, manage alternate hosts and avoid disruptive sprays before the species and risk have been established.
Biological control and natural enemies
Predatory mites and Orius may attack exposed stages, but suitability should be assessed after species confirmation.
Biological control should be selected only after the pest has been identified and the crop, temperature, growing environment and pest pressure have been considered.
Related BioWiki pages
This page provides general integrated pest-management information. Identification and control decisions should be confirmed for the crop and local situation.