Thrips, common name for minute insects found worldwide that feed on a wide range of plants, including important crops and ornamentals. Most species are no more than 1.5 mm (0.06 in) long as adults; some are wingless, but others have two pairs of short wings fringed with hairs. Both adults and nymphs have sucking, piercing mouthparts. Although thrips pollinate some plants and also eat some insect pests, they are mainly considered pests and are controlled with insecticides. Species such as the onion thrips also transmit plant diseases.
Scientific classification: Thrips make up the order Thysanoptera. The onion thrips is classified as Thrips tabaci.