Primarily phytophagous, they rasp plant tissues and feed on the released juices. Metamorphosis in thrips is usually considered simple or gradual, although in some ways resembling complete metamorphosis. The first two wingless instars are known as larvae. A pupal resting stage precedes adult emergence. Adults are generally characterized by having two pairs of slender wings with hairlike fringe.
Wingless adults do exist, but occur primarily during the winter.
The largest thrips family, Thripidae, also contains the highest number of economically important thrips species. Bulbs, leaves, and flowers are all subject to thrips attack. Common thrips are not easily distinguished from other thrips families. Because of their minute size, species identification in the field is not practical. Mites are very tiny arthropods closely related to insects.