Introduction to the probable movement of Thysanoptera through the Moravian Gate (Štramberk, Czech Republic)

Abstract

In the area of the Moravian Gate at Stramberk (Moravia, Czech Republic) detailed field investigations of Thysanoptera were conducted. The Gate offers the possibility of dispersal of thrips species from the South to the North and vice versa. A total of 359 samples were collected, from which 2367 adult specimens of Thysanoptera belonging to 55 species were obtained. Between them are species having their main distribution in the Southern parts of Europe, such as Aptinothrips elegans, Anaphothrips atroapterus, A. euphorbiae, Chirothrips aculeatus, Limothrips consimilis, Neohydatothrips abnormis, Rubiothrips pillichi, R. validus and Theilopedothrips pilosus .Additionally species were found that are absent or dispersed in Southern Europe, such as Aptinothrips stylifer, Chirothrips hamatus, Odontothrips loti and Platythrips tunicatus . In ancient times these species may have used the Moravian Gate, which has been passed by large armies and many traders (the amber route), carrying all kinds of plant products with...