
Community identification
Thunderfly (Thrips)
Order Thysanoptera
- Order & Family
- Order: Thysanoptera; Families include Thripidae and Phlaeothripidae
- Size
- 0.5 to 5.0 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Commonly found on plants, flowers, and crops, but often enter homes during hot, humid weather or before thunderstorms.
Diet & Feeding
Feed by puncturing the outer layer of plant cells and sucking out the contents; some species are predatory or eat fungal spores.
Behavior Patterns
Known for swarming in large numbers during specific weather conditions; many species are capable of flight despite their minute size.
Risks & Benefits
Major agricultural pests that can transmit plant viruses and damage crops; occasionally bite humans causing minor irritation, but no serious health risk.