Aphids

Found on stems, leaves, and buds of diverse host plants worldwide in gardens and agricultural fields.

Phloem sap extracted from host plants using piercing-sucking mouthparts.

Reproaches rapidly through parthenogenesis and forms dense colonies on new plant growth, often secreting sticky honeydew.

Risks include vectoring plant viruses and causing leaf curling, stunted growth, and flower bud drop. Benefits include serving as a major food source for beneficial insects like ladybugs.