The genus Scirtothrips Shull, 1909 (Thysanoptera: Thripidae, Sericothripini), in Mexico.
Johansen R. M., Mojica-Guzmán A.
Author Affiliation: Instituto de Biología, UNAM, Departamento de Zoología, Laboratorio de Entomología, Apartado Postal 70-153, 04510 Coyoacán, México, D.F., Mexico.
Folia Entomológica Mexicana : 23-108
Abstract : A review of 37 Mexican species belonging to genus Scirtothrips, was carried out. From these species, five were previously described by other authors (four were known from New World countries, and one is Mexican), whereas 32 are new. It was necessary to integrate two natural species groups, based on the morphology of mouth-cone: citri (with four species assemblages) and aztecus (with two assemblages). Keys for the identification of groups and assemblages, as well as a key for the species in each assemblage, are provided. The present study allowed the integration of the first complete information about geographic distribution, and some aspects about ecological relationships with natural ecosystems and agroecosystems in Mexican Territory. In this way, 28 of the species keep relationships with agroecosystems of Poaceae like Avena sativa L. (one species) and fruit crops: citrics, Citrus spp. (one species); avocado, Persea americana Mill. cv. Hass (seven species), and mango, Mangifera indica L. (20 species). Furthermore, 14 species are known as habitants of natural ecosystems. The material studied was taken mainly from the Sierra Madre Oriental and del Sur, the Transverse Volcanic Range, as well as the Northwestern Region (Sonora) of Mexico. Morphological illustrations of the head, antennae, thorax and abdomen from each species are included. Maps of the geographic distribution of the species are also included.