Larval development is completed in about 9 days. There are two non- feeding stages called the prepupa and pupa. They do not feed and occur primarily in the soil. Combined prepupal and pupal development is completed in 4-7 days. In Hawaii, this species has a darker form during the rainy season.
Males are wingless and exceedingly rare.
Females live for about two to three weeks and each can lay about 80 eggs. Several natural enemies have been introduced to Hawaii in an attempt to help control this pest. However, only the parasite, Ceranisus menes, has become established. Unfortunately the impact of this parasite is not considered great. Cultural Control Cultural control practices can help reduce onion thrips infestations.