Thrips

Widely distributed on plants, flowers, and in leaf litter; often found indoors on houseplants.

Mostly herbivorous, feeding on plant sap by puncturing the epidermis of leaves and stems.

Many species are social or colonial. They are weak fliers but can be carried long distances by wind. They undergo a unique life cycle with two feeding larval stages and non-feeding pupal-like stages.

Risk: Major agricultural pests that damage crops and can transmit plant viruses. Occasionally bite humans, causing minor irritation. Benefit: Some species are predatory, feeding on mites and other small insects, and some serve as minor pollinators.