Aphid

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide in temperate zones, typically colonies live on the undersides of leaves, stems, and flower buds of a wide variety of plants.

Diet & Feeding

Sap-suckers; they feed on phloem sap from plants using piercing-sucking mouthparts, which can cause leaves to yellow or curl.

Behavior Patterns

They often congregate in dense clusters on new plant growth. They excrete a sticky substance called 'honeydew' which can attract ants and promote mold growth. They have rapid reproduction cycles, often reproducing asexually.

Risks & Benefits

Major agricultural and garden pests because they weaken plants and can transmit plant viruses. They are beneficial as a primary food source for predators like ladybugs and lacewings.

Identified on: 2/27/2026