Predatory thrips
categories: Natural Enemies Other Natural Enemies
last review date: 2025-08-23 05:50
Photo by: D.G. James
Biology
The majority of thrips seen in gardens are plant feeders, but these only occasionally cause significant damage beyond leaf speckling. The western flower thrips is the commonest species and has a wide host range including feeding on insect and mite eggs, making it a true omnivore.
Other garden thrips species are true predators feeding on mites, aphids, small caterpillars and other thrips. Most of the predatory thrips in the Pacific Northwest are about 1/16 inch in length and dark colored, banded in white or are red/orange.
Closer observation with a hand lens will show that the forelegs of these thrips are enlarged for handling prey.
Prey or Pest Targeted
- Thrips, mites, aphids, scale insects, small caterpillars
Attracting and Keeping Natural Enemies
and Pollinators in Your Yard and Garden
- Native plants provide essential resources.
- Native flora also provides natural overwintering sites.
- Natural dispersion from nearby habitats ensures visitation.
- Some kinds of beneficial insects predatory mites are commercially available.
- Avoid regular use of synthetic, broad-spectrum pesticides.
- Infrequent use of certain narrow-spectrum pesticides is more compatible with some beneficials.
- Extensive lawns are also not conducive to attracting beneficial insects.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- None recommended
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.