Aphid

Found globally on the undersides of leaves and stems of various host plants in gardens and agricultural fields.

Herbivorous; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant sap (phloem).

Often found in dense colonies; they reproduce rapidly, sometimes asexually through parthenogenesis. They secrete honeydew which can attract ants.

Risks include stunting plant growth, leaf curling, and spreading plant viruses. Benefits include serving as a primary food source for beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.