The acquisition of TSWV by thrips larvae is an area of continuing study. Some evidence indicates that the viral glycoproteins (GPs) bind to the midgut epithelium and have a role in the process of virus uptake in the midgut (Figure 14). The virus then moves to other cells and organs, and becomes well established in the muscle cells (Figure 15). Another perspective is that the temporary association between the midgut, visceral muscle and salivary gland complex in the larval stage provides the avenue for the virus to become systemically established in the thrips. Eventually, the virus enters the salivary glands. Although the route to the salivary glands still needs to be determined, virions are excreted with the saliva (Figure 16) into host plants during thrips feeding.