Recognition data

Distinguishing features

Female apterous; uniformly brown to dark brown; antennae 7-segmented (VI–VII fused, VIII distinct), segments III and IV with small simple sensorium. Head parallel-sided, constricted at base, no ocelli. Pronotum weakly reticulate, all setae minute. Meso and metanota transverse. Tergites with transverse row of reticles at anterior, without sculpture posteromedially, with marginal craspedum; setae on IX and X minute, X with complete longitudinal split. Sternal marginal setae small, arising submarginally. Male sternites III–VII with small, invaginated, pore plate near anterior margin.

Related and similar species

Only one species is placed in this genus. It is the only wingless species of Panchaetothripinae, and consequently has a pterothorax that is very different in structure Despite this, it appears to be related to Phibalothrips.

Distribution data

Southeastern Australia

Biological data

Host plants

Recorded breeding on Apodasmia browni (Restionaceae), but possibly also associated with species of Poa.

Life history

Adults and larvae living on leaves

Taxonomic data

Current valid name

Moundothrips apterygus Wilson

Original name and synonyms

• Moundothrips apterygus Wilson, 1975