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How can thrips reproduce without fertilized eggs?
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thrips
Western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis).
While the primary method of reproduction for thrips is through bisexual union, they are also capable of reproducing via parthenogenesis, a process in which offspring develop from unfertilized eggs.1
In this reproductive strategy, the female produces eggs that do not require fertilization by a male gamete to develop into new individuals. Although bisexual reproduction remains the standard for most thrips, parthenogenesis occurs occasionally in the order. This allows for population development even in the absence of males.231