Thrip (Thunderbug)

Globally distributed; commonly found on flowers, leaves, under bark, or in leaf litter.

Herbivorous, feeding on plant sap by puncturing cells; some species are predatory or fungus-eaters.

They are known for their fringed wings and jerky movement; they often swarm during hot, humid weather (thunderstorms).

Major agricultural pests that can transmit plant viruses; they can occasionally bite humans, causing minor skin irritation and itching.