An updated checklist of Thrips (Insecta: Thysanoptera) of Sikkim

Abstract

Systematic surveys of thrips were undertaken during 2019-2022 with specific reference to Khangchendzonga National Park in order to understand the species richness of this World heritage habitat. The study revealed presence of 56 species in Sikkim. The suborder Tubulifera is represented by 24 species which can be grouped into 14 genera under two subfamilies such as Phlaeothripinae and Idolothripinae in Phlaeothripidae. Similarly, the collection records have indicated as many as 32 species of terebrantians under Thripidae. All the above said 32 thripids belong to 20 genera which are grouped within four subfamilies, with the lion’s share of 25 species in Thripinae, followed by 5 Panchaetothripines, and one each of Dendrothripinae and Sericothripinae. Analysis of the species composition in terms of their feeding habit and habitat reflected that 83% of the thrips are phytophagous, 13% mycophagous and 4% obligate predators. From amongst the phytophagous forms, 27 are phyllophilous, 17 flower dwelling anthophilous species, and 4 poephilous. A close scrutiny also revealed the presence of pests, of which Sciothrips cardamomi Ramakrishna, Thrips palmi Karny, and Ceratothripoides claratris Shumsher are notable pests with appreciable economic importance.