Nymphs are smaller than the wingless adult but similar in shape and color. The melon aphid has a wide host range. They have been found on all the cucurbits, bean, pea, eggplant, okra, spinach, tomato and cotton. There are certainly other hosts not reported. Congregating on lower leaf surfaces, they pierce the plant and suck sap.
Leaves curl downward and pucker.
Wilting and discoloration may follow. Aphids secrete honeydew, the plants become sticky, and sooty mold develops. Sooty mold can reduce light penetration, subsequently reducing yield and quality. Winged forms migrate to other hosts in late spring. During these migratory flights, aphids may spread viral diseases from infected volunteer plants and weeds to healthy crops.