Symptoms
Aphids damage crops directly by distorting leaves and flowers as they feed. The honeydew they excrete as they feed promotes the growth of black sooty moulds which in turn reduce the crops photosynthesis as well as its aesthetic value. Dust, dirt and skins shed in molting adhere to the viscous substance, making plants unsightly. Severe aphid infestations can result in defoliation of the plant and loss of the flower crop. Furthermore, aphids transmit several plant viruses.
Aphid Life Cycle
