Aphid

Natural Habitat

Found on various plants, both indoors and outdoors, including garden plants, agricultural crops, ornamental plants, and houseplants. They thrive in temperate regions.

Diet & Feeding

Plant sap from a wide variety of host plants. They use piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract nutrients.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs and adults feed on plant sap. They are known for 'honeydew' excretion, a sugary substance, which can lead to sooty mold growth if abundant. They tend to cluster on the undersides of leaves and stems. Their life cycle can be quite rapid, especially in warm conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Significant agricultural pests, causing direct damage to plants by feeding, leading to stunted growth, distorted leaves, and reduced yields. They also transmit plant viruses. Benefits: Some species are food sources for beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

Identified on: 8/11/2025