Transmission of ilarviruses by thrips
In Australia investigations were carried out to study the transmission of tobacco streak ilarvirus (EPPO A2 organism) and prunus necrotic ringspot ilarvirus (EPPO A2 organism).
The results showed that Thrips tabaci and Microcephalothrips abdominalis transmitted TSV and PNRSV only via pollen. Thrips apparently created wounds through superficial feeding. Pollen grains which are attached to their bodies are virus contaminated on the outside and these virus particles might enter through the wounds infecting the plant.
Sources
Teakle, D.S.; Greber, R.S.; Klose, M.J.; Milne, J.R.; Spoodee, R.; Walter, G.H. (1991) Transmission of pollen-associated ilarviruses by thrips.
AT: XVth International Symposium on Virus and Virus Diseases of Temperate Fruit Crops, Vienna (1991-07)