Aphid

Scientific Name: Aphididae

Order & Family: Order: Hemiptera, Family: Aphididae

Size: 1 to 10 millimeters (0.04 to 0.40 inches)

Aphid

Natural Habitat

Typically found on the undersides of leaves, stems, or roots of a wide variety of plants, often in gardens or agricultural fields.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on plant sap (phloem) by piercing plant tissues with their needle-like mouthparts.

Behavior Patterns

Aphids are social insects that often form large colonies. Many species are capable of an asexual form of reproduction (parthenogenesis) and can produce live young rapidly.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered significant agricultural pests as they can weaken plants and transmit plant viruses; however, they provide a vital food source for beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

Identified on: 5/21/2026