What is a characteristic of thrips?

Thrips are small, slender insects that are known for their piercing-sucking mouthparts, which they use to feed on plants. While they are not typically known for biting humans, their presence can lead to skin irritation or discomfort in some cases, which may lead to the misconception that they bite.

C is considered the correct choice because it highlights the occasional biting behavior, which, although not typical, can be a notable characteristic of some thrips species when they come into contact with human skin. This behavior is not their primary mode of action or feeding, as they mainly target plant tissues, but it can occur under certain circumstances.

The other options describe attributes that do not accurately represent thrips. They are not large or dark (as thrips are generally small and can be lighter in coloration), they do not possess the ability to fly long distances (they can fly but typically only short distances, relying more on wind currents or being carried by other means), and they do not have an aquatic larval stage, as they develop in the plant tissue or soil rather than an aquatic habitat.