Thrips palmi: pathways and possibilities for spread

An analysis was made of 406 detections of Thrips palmi in imported consignments at points of entry in Europe and in the USA. This thrips pest commonly occurred in products for final consumption, but was rarely found in plants for planting. Most detections related to ornamentals (79% in Europe and 85% in USA), and especially orchid cut flowers imported from Thailand. Aubergine ( Solanum melongena ) and balsam pear ( Momordica charantia ) were the vegetables most often found to be infested. From experience in The Netherlands, introductions of T. palmi and subsequent outbreaks are assumed to result from the import of infested plants for planting, and from exchange of plant material between growers. There is no indication that products for final consumption have a role in the entry of T. palmi.