The antennae are 8-segmented, with segments III and IV each having a forked sense cone, and VIII being roughly twice the length of VII.

The median area of the metanotum is transverse anteriorly and has irregular equiangular or longitudinal reticulations posteriorly.

Also on tergite VIII, there is a posteromarginal comb with long, fine, closely spaced microtrichia on broadly triangular bases.

[1][3] Frankliniella williamsi is believed to originate from Central America, but it is now widespread around the world in the tropics and subtropics.

[3] This species breeds in leaf axils of young grasses, including maize (Zea mays).