Meet Frankie: A New Tool in the Battle Against Foliar Thrips

A new predatory thrip, Franklinothrips vespiformis (Frankie), has been discovered and developed as a biological control for Chilli thrips and other leaf-dwelling pests. Identified by entomologist Adam Billsborough, Frankie is larger than typical thrips, highly predatory, and thrives in warm climates. Trials in Western Australian blueberries showed reduced thrips damage compared to chemical treatments. Frankie benefits from pollen-rich banker plants and post-harvest pruning to maintain populations. Further trials are underway to optimise its use in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs for Australian berry growers.