Thrips

Natural Habitat

Found globally on plants, in flowers, leaf litter, and occasionally indoors after hitchhiking on clothing or plants.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily herbivores that puncture plant cells to suck out contents; some species are predatory on smaller insects or mites.

Behavior Patterns

They are highly mobile, often dispersing via wind. They undergo a unique metamorphosis and can reproduce rapidly in warm conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Major agricultural pests that damage crops and transmit plant viruses. They can occasionally bite humans, cause minor skin irritation or itching, but do not transmit human diseases.

Identified on: 1/4/2026