aphids

Aphids, also known as plant lice, are small, soft-bodied insects in the superfamily Aphidoidea within the order Hemiptera. They range from about 1 to 10 millimeters in length and display a variety of colors and shapes. Most have two tube-like cornicles projecting from the posterior of the abdomen, which can be a helpful identifying feature. They feed primarily on plant sap using specialized mouthparts that access the phloem.

Aphids exhibit rapid and diverse life cycles. Many species reproduce by parthenogenetic females, giving birth to live young without mating, allowing rapid population growth in favorable conditions. Some species alternate between asexual and sexual generations and may overwinter as eggs on woody host plants. Populations can include both winged and wingless forms; winged individuals disperse to new host plants when crowded or conditions deteriorate.

Feeding on phloem can cause leaf curling, stunted growth, and reduced yields. Aphids excrete honeydew, a sugary waste product that attracts ants and can lead to sooty mold on foliage. In addition to direct feeding damage, many aphids are important vectors of plant viruses, transmitting pathogens as they feed.

Ecology and management involve natural enemies such as lady beetles, lacewings, hoverflies, parasitoid wasps, and fungal pathogens. Ants frequently farm aphids for honeydew, protecting them from predators. Integrated pest management emphasizes monitoring, promoting natural enemies, cultural practices, resistant plant varieties, and targeted treatments when necessary, with a preference for least-toxic options to minimize disruption of beneficial organisms.