Black Bean Aphid

Natural Habitat

Agricultural fields, gardens, and diverse host plants including beans, sugar beets, and various ornamental plants.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; feeds on the sap of plant phloem using piercing-sucking mouthparts.

Behavior Patterns

Exhibit complex life cycles often involving host-switching between primary (woody) and secondary (herbaceous) hosts. They are known for rapid asexual reproduction (parthenogenesis) during summer months.

Risks & Benefits

Major agricultural pest that causes leaf curling, stunting, and can act as a vector for various plant viruses; they benefit the ecosystem by secreting honeydew, which serves as a food source for ants and other insects.

Identified on: 6/25/2026