Aphids give birth to live young. Nymphs are difficult to distinguish from adults, but are generally smaller and lighter in color. Adult aphids are most often present as wingless adults, though winged forms become more evident as plant development passes the tasseling stage. The winged forms disseminate to form new colonies when environmental conditions are unfavorable or when colonies become overcrowded. Males are seldom seen, and asexual reproduction is the norm.
Aphids have a wide host range, but show preferences for barley, sorghum and corn.
Several weed species are also hosts for these pests. Feeding occurs during the day. Aphids have piercing-sucking mouthparts, and feed on juices of host plants. Aphids produce a sugary substance called honeydew. Life Cycle Corn leaf aphids are most often detected in mid-late June.