Both the first and second larval stage hide among the bud and flower parts of the plant. The second stage larva turns white just before it molts and moves to the soil or leaf litter where it enters the pupal stage and undergoes metamorphosis to an adult. Adults emerge from the soil 2 to 5 days later and may be yellow or dark brown. They hold their four hair-fringed wings flat over their backs. Adults can live 30 to 45 days.
Thrips feed by piercing plant cells with their mouthparts and sucking out the cellular contents.
The damage to plant cells caused by thrips feeding can result in deformation of flowers, leaves and shoots. There is often silvery streaking and flecking on expanded leaves. Thrips often deposit tiny greenish-black fecal specks on leaves when they feed. Thrips management Thrips management involves early detection and identification of the insect, followed by a vigorous control program. Tap the plant with a pencil while holding a sheet of white paper to catch any falling insects.