Thrips

thrips, (order Thysanoptera), any of approximately 5,000 species of insects that are among the smallest of the winged insects and are abundant in the tropical and temperate regions of the world. Thrips are economically important since some species transmit plant viruses. Feeding by thrips may reduce seed production, disfigure flowers and fruits, and damage plant leaves. In warm areas a number of them cause plant galls and leaf rolls. On the other hand, a few species prey on destructive mites and scale insects, and a number may aid in the pollination of flowers.

Most thrips are 1.5 to 3 mm (0.06 to 0.12 inch) in length, with the smallest being about 0.6 mm (0.02 inch) and the largest about 15 mm (0.6 inch). Because of their minute size, they can enter the smallest flowers or tiniest cracks in stems and bark. Their wings, when present, are narrow and fringed, hence the name Thysanoptera (Latin for “fringed wings”). Despite their Lilliputian size, thrips are often elaborately ornamented with hexagonal designs, spines, or body flanges. The bristles (setae) of some are expanded at the tips or elongated, or the body wall may be expanded into prongs or forks. The larvae of thrips tend to be brightly coloured (red, orange, or yellow), whereas the adults range from whitish to brown or black. Adults have extensible bladders on the tarsi of the legs, as suggested by the common name bladder feet. The term thrips is both singular and plural.