Common thrip

<em>Tmetothrips subapterus</em> is a species of thrips in the order Thysanoptera, recorded from Norway, Sweden, and the United States. It is Not Evaluated on the IUCN Red List. The genus <em>Tmetothrips</em> is relatively small and less studied than economically important thrips genera. Like other thysanopterans, adults are minute insects, typically measuring 1–2 millimeters in length with characteristic fringed wings, though the species epithet "subapterus" suggests reduced or short wings in at least some individuals or life stages. As a plant-associated insect, it is likely a feeder on plant tissue or fungal material in the litter layer or on vegetation in its recorded range habitats. Its occurrence in both Scandinavian countries and the United States suggests a possibly broad or introduced range. Diet and specific host plant associations are not well established in the literature. Biological traits such as body weight, lifespan, reproductive rate, and habitat requirements remain poorly documented in comprehensive standardized scientific assessments for this species.