Tavern Thrips

Natural Habitat

Found on the undersides of leaves in greenhouses, gardens, and on indoor houseplants.

Diet & Feeding

Plant juices; they puncture leaf cells and suck out the contents, causing silvering or browning of foliage.

Behavior Patterns

Often found in clusters; they exhibit a distinctive jerking movement when disturbed and leave small specks of black excrement on leaves.

Risks & Benefits

Significant plant pests that can damage ornamental plants and crops; no direct risk to humans but can be a nuisance in large numbers.

Identified on: 1/15/2026