Aphid

Found on a wide variety of plants, including garden plants, agricultural crops, trees, and shrubs. They often cluster on new growth, the undersides of leaves, and stems.

Plant sap (specifically, phloem sap).

Aphids reproduce rapidly, often through asexual reproduction (parthenogenesis), where females give birth to live young without mating. This allows populations to grow quickly. They feed by inserting their stylets into plant phloem to suck out sap. Some species can produce honeydew, a sugary excretion, which attracts ants that may 'farm' the aphids for this substance.

Risks: Aphids are significant plant pests. They can stunt plant growth, deform leaves, and transmit plant viruses. Their honeydew can also lead to sooty mold growth, which inhibits photosynthesis. Benefits: While generally considered pests, they are a food source for many beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverfly larvae, which helps in natural pest control.