Tetyra bipunctata , the shield backed pine seed bug, shown here is one of the species that causes problems in seed orchards. The damage is similar to that caused by the leaffooted bugs in that both immature and adult stages feed on seeds. However, because there is only one generation a year, and the feeding generally occurs later in the summer, its damage to seeds is more limited than the leaffooted bugs. These are laid in summer after the adults have emerged from their overwintering sites. The fringe wings, shown here , are characteristic of the group.
Thrips are plant feeders, attacking flowers, leaves, fruit, twigs and buds.
Only two species, Gnophothrips fuscus, the slash pine flower thrips and Leptothrips sp. are know to seriously affect seed production of conifers. Thrips cause damage by feeding on the flower scales and bracts, causing beads of clear resin to exude to the surface. When feeding is severe, flowers shrivel, become encrusted with dried resin and drop from the trees. These thrips are among the most destructive insects affecting slash pine seed production in Florida.