Thrips

Natural Habitat

Thrips are found worldwide in a wide range of habitats where plants are present. They are common in gardens, agricultural fields, greenhouses, and even indoors on houseplants. They prefer sheltered locations on plants, such as in developing buds, flower parts, or along leaf veins.

Diet & Feeding

Thrips feed on plant sap by piercing plant cells with their stylet (mouthpart) and sucking out the contents. This feeding can damage leaves, flowers, and fruits. Some species are predatory and feed on other small insects or mites, but the vast majority are plant feeders.

Behavior Patterns

Thrips are very small and often go unnoticed until their populations are high or plant damage becomes visible. They are most active during warm, dry weather. Many species are generalist feeders and can move between different host plants. They can reproduce rapidly, and some species can reproduce parthenogenetically (without fertilization), leading to quick population growth. They are weak fliers but can be dispersed by wind, on host plants, or by human activity.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Many species of thrips are significant agricultural and horticultural pests, causing damage to crops (e.g., vegetables, fruits, ornamental plants) by their feeding, leading to cosmetic damage, reduced yield, and sometimes wilting or death of plants. They can also transmit plant viruses, which can cause even greater economic losses. Benefits: A few species of thrips are predatory and can help control populations of other pest insects and mites.

Identified on: 9/2/2025