NEXT Day Air Aphids Homoptera, Aphididae There are many species of aphids known to be pests.
Most species are similar in feeding habits and reproduction.
Feeding Habits Aphids feed on plant sap by inserting their mouthparts into plant tissue. They excrete a sugary liquid, or honeydew. The honeydew not only clogs the pores of the leaves, but also encourages the growth of black, sooty mold, which can prevent light from reaching the photosynthetic tissue of the plant. Aphids weaken the plant by draining it's fluids, may cause severe distortion of growth, and are common means of transmitting plant viruses. The body structure of aphids is simplified to perform only the functions of feeding and reproduction, while retaining the ability to walk.