Ethirothrips tibialis

Ethirothrips tibialis (Okajima)

(Figs 176–181, 240–242)

Uredothrips tibialis Okajima, 1975: 16–19.

E. tibialis was originally described from the Ryukyus, Southern Japan, and has a rather wide distribution range in the tropical and subtropical areas of eastern Asia, such as Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo (Sabah), Thailand, Taiwan and Japan. Subsequently, a synonymous species, E. chui, was described from Taiwan under the synonymous genus Scotothrips by Chen (1982). This species shows somewhat confused variation due to geographical variation as well as allometric growth, and there are some differences between local populations in the colour of antennae and legs, number and form (stout or slender) of cheek setae, and in the relative length of tube. The large male has a median raised flange-like oblong protrusion on the metanotum (Fig. 181), which varies in shape and size not only by local population but also by body size. E. tibialis is very similar to E. tirumalaiensis from India, but it can be distinguished easily by having an apical tubercle on inner margin of fore tibia (Fig. 179). The female is always macropterous (Fig. 240), whereas the male is usually micropterous (Fig. 241), rarely macropterous (Fig. 242).

Specimens-examined (There are numerous females and males in TUA collection, and these are a part of them).

Peninsular Malaysia, Cameron Highlands, Pahang, 11 females and 9 males (mac.), by fogging, 15.vii.2003, H. Kojima, about 20km from Kuala Lumpur, Templer Park, 1 male, on dead leaves, 15.viii.1990, TN & SO. Borneo, Sabah, 15km from Kimanis, 1 male and 1 female, on dead leaves and branches, 9.ix.1990, TN & SO. Thailand, Phuket, 2 females and 1 male (mac.), on dead leaves, 20.viii.1976, SO, Bangkok, Bangkhen, Campus of Kasetsart University, NBCRC, 1 male, on dead branches of Casuarina equisetifolia, 18.i.1988, SO, Hadyai (= Hatyai), 4 females, on dead leaves and branches, 28.viii.1991, TN & SO; Vietnam, Tuyen Quang Prov., Ham Yen Distr., Tan Lap, Lam Truong, 1 female, on dead leaves and branches, 19.viii.2000, SO. Taiwan, Taoyuan Hsien, Daxi (= Daikei), 1 female and 2 males, 19.v.1980, H. Makihara. Japan, many females and males, see Okajima (2006).