Thrips acquires TSWV from infected plant tissue. During the latent period the virus travels to the midgut where it enters the hemolymph and moves to the salivary glands. Multiplication of the virus within the thrips may occur. The latent period is 3-12 days. The virus is retained by the infected thrips for life.
Transmission is via the salivary fluid.
If damaged cells survive long enough, the virus can enter adjacent healthy cells to complete transmission. Adult and larval thrips can transmit the virus. The virus is not transmitted to subsequent generations through egg production. Stylet oils do not trap virus particles, but rather are selectively toxic to newly infected cells on the plant. The information given herein is for educational purposes only.