Hercinothrips femoralis (Reuter, 1891) - A New Pest Thrips (Thysanoptera: Panchaetothripinae) in Slovakia

Abstract

Monitoring of pest species in plant production and extended trade on ornamental plant material, including precise identification, are the main goals of modern plant protection. As a result, a new species of phytophagous thrips - Hercinothripsfemoralis (Reuter, 1891) was recorded in Slovakia (experimental greenhouse in Comenius University, Bratislava) in mid 2007. Some plant specimens infested by this pest showed signs of lesions especially on young leaves. The species has been reported in more European countries recently. Due to the potential damage it can cause, increased attention should be paid to pest monitoring.