Frankliniella occidentalis, Thrips tabaci
Tiny slender insects that rasp plant tissue and suck sap. Cause silvery scarring on leaves and fruit, and transmit plant viruses.
Very small (1/25 inch), slender insects with fringed wings. Yellow, brown, or black. Nymphs are wingless and lighter colored.
Silvery or bronze streaking on leaves. Distorted growth. Scarred fruit. Black fecal spots. Flower damage and drop.
Many generations per year. Eggs inserted into plant tissue. Nymphs feed on plants, later stages drop to soil to pupate. Adults emerge and fly to new plants.
Remove weeds that harbor thrips. Avoid planting near onions or grains. Use reflective mulches. Inspect transplants before planting.