The gum tree thrips Isoneurothrips australis Bagnall. Survival at different temperatures and humidities and its relation to capacity for dispersal

Thrips are carried long distances on the wind. Their ability to survive periods of fasting may determine their chance of completing such journeys alive. Thrips’survival was measured at various temperatures and humidities. Survival is best related to saturation deficit. This relation can be combined with meteorological data to calculate the survival time of thrips migrating at various times of year. From May to September inclusive a thrips can probably survive over 24 h in the air and runs little risk of death from desiccation. From December to March survival times average about 6h but can be as low as 3h on hot summer days.