Aeolothripidae

Aeolothripidae is a family of thrips, which are small, slender insects characterized by fringed wings. They are among the most primitive of the Terebrantia suborder. This family is distinguished by its predatory habits, feeding primarily on other small arthropods, particularly other thrips, as well as mite eggs and small insects. Larvae and adults of many Aeolothripidae species are known to be voracious predators.

Members of Aeolothripidae are found worldwide, inhabiting a variety of habitats, though they are most common in temperate and subtropical regions. They are often associated with flowering plants, where their prey can be found. A key characteristic of this family is the presence of a single-segmented, broad, and flattened antenna, which differs from many other thrips families. The forewings are typically broad and held folded over the back when at rest.

The life cycle of Aeolothripidae typically involves egg, larval, prepupal, pupal, and adult stages. The larvae are also predatory. Due to their beneficial role in controlling pest populations, some species of Aeolothripidae have been investigated for their potential use in biological control programs. However, their economic importance is not as widely recognized as some other predatory insects.