A Non‐Destructive Method for Sex Identification in a Tubuliferan Thrips

ABSTRACT Accurate sex identification of the biological control agent Pseudophilothrips ichini Hood (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) is a useful tool for colony management and experimental applications, particularly in this haplodiploid species where sex ratios are prone to fluctuation. Yet destructive methods of sex identification limit specimen usage, prompting the need for a sex identification method for live thrips. In this study we present a new live sexing protocol for P. ichini involving temporary immobilization on a chilled stage and examination via a digital microscope. We compared the new protocol to the existing destructive sex identification method using an individual‐level comparison and a population‐level sex ratio comparison. Despite an error rate of 6.7%, the live‐sexing protocol represents a practical alternative to the destructive method of sex identification for P. ichini , and this new method offers promise for adaptation to other species of thrips.