Biology of the Red Clover Thrips, Haplothrips niger (Osborn) (Thysanoptera: Phloeothripidae)

Abstract

The red clover thrips, Haplothrips niger (Osb.), was first recorded from the state of Iowa and described by Osborn in 1883 under the name Phloeothrips nigra. The species hns since been collected and observed in many parts of the United States, southern Canada, and Europe. It wils reported in New England and recognized as a potential pest of red clover by Muggeridge (1933). Minute and very active, the adult insect is glossy black in contrast to the nymphal stages, which are bright red. In Minnesota, common host plants are alsike clover, Trifolium hybridum L., and red clover, T. pratense L.