Aphid (likely Green Peach Aphid or similar species)

Natural Habitat

Found on a wide variety of plants, including agricultural crops, garden plants, and weeds. Can occasionally be found indoors if carried in on plants or blown inside.

Diet & Feeding

Aphids are phytophagous, meaning they feed on plant sap. They use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract nutrients from the phloem of plants. This feeding can harm plants by depriving them of nutrients, leading to stunted growth, distorted leaves, and sometimes plant death.

Behavior Patterns

Aphids often live in large colonies on the undersides of leaves and on young stems. They reproduce rapidly, often parthenogenetically (without mating), leading to quick population explosions. They can produce winged forms that disperse to new plants when conditions become crowded or food scarce. They excrete 'honeydew', a sugary substance.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major agricultural pests, causing significant crop damage and acting as vectors for plant viruses. Their honeydew can promote sooty mold growth on plants. Benefits: Serve as a food source for many beneficial insects (e.g., ladybugs, lacewings) which helps in natural pest control. Some species are used in biological research.

Identified on: 9/8/2025