It is present on all major Hawaiian islands except Lanai. Depending on the extent of feeding, flowers become flecked, spotted, or deformed. The life cycle of this thrips has not been determined. However, the development of the pest is similar to that of other thrips species. Durations of each stage vary depending on species, host, and temperature.
Most thrips lay eggs, but some species can birth live young.
The Hawaii flower thrips lay eggs. Generations are continuous in Hawaii. EGGS Eggs are kidney shaped. The egg shell is smooth, delicate, and pale white or yellow in color. They are usually laid singly in a scattered pattern, but sometimes may occur in rows alongside or beneath veins.