First interception of the greenhouse pest Echinothrips americanus Morgan, 1913 (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Slovakia

Abstract

Echinothrips americanus Morgan, 1913, is one of the pest species that expanded their area of distribution in a relatively short time. Being native to the eastern parts of North America, its first European interception was recorded in 1989. Since then it has invaded greenhouses in most European countries, including Slovakia, where it was first recorded in inspected material at the Botanical garden in Košice. As a polyphagous thrips with a wide host range it may induce damage mainly on ornamentals, although if low in numbers it can be easily overlooked. The species is a suitable example where preventive steps against its spread have not been sufficient enough which, therefore, demands further monitoring. Remarks on morphology, identification, economical importance and control are also given.

Keywords

• echinothrips americanus
• thrips
• ornamentals
• spread
• greenhouse
• pest