Thrips

Commonly found on many types of vegetation, inside flowers, and occasionally drifting through the air on wind currents. They frequently enter homes through windows or on clothing/pets.

Primarily herbivorous, feeding on plant sap by piercing cells. Some species are predatory, feeding on other tiny insects or mites.

They are often active in large numbers, especially in warm, humid weather. They undergo a metamorphosis that includes egg, larval, prepupal, pupal, and adult stages. Many species reproduce rapidly and can fly or jump.

Risks: Major agricultural pests that damage crops and transmit plant viruses; they can bite humans occasionally (causing minor, itchy irritation). Benefits: Some species provide benefits as predators of mites and other pests.