Thrips
Scientific Name: Order Thysanoptera
Order & Family: Order Thysanoptera; Families vary (e.g., Thripidae)
Size: 0.5 to 5 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found globally on flowers, leaves, and beneath bark; often found indoors on houseplants.
Diet & Feeding
Mostly herbivorous, feeding on plant sap by puncturing cells; some species are predatory or fungus-feeders.
Behavior Patterns
Poor fliers that often drift in wind; many species exhibit social behaviors or rapid jumping movements when disturbed.
Risks & Benefits
Major agricultural pests that damage crops and transmit plant viruses; can cause minor skin irritation or 'bites' to humans by probing.
Identified on: 3/12/2026