Tiny and varied in color, these insects suck the juice of plants to the point where the plants, wilt, dehydrate, and possibly die. They also spread viruses that can kill plants. They are a popular nemesis to gardeners and farmers when they form large colonies on vegetation. Some species of lady beetles, moth larvae, and wasps eat them, however, some aphids are toxic giving them an advantage against predators. Most female aphids are wingless, but winged ones will return to their original plant after starting populations elsewhere. They can be mechanically removes (killed by hand), but small size and quick escape make it a inefficient means of removing them.
Aphids come in a variety of species. Colors vary by species, but popular ones are green, yellow, or white. A group called "woolly aphids" are covered in a white, waxy substance that resembles cotton or fuzz. All types of aphids pierce the plant at its leaves and stems. They digest plant juices and excrete a sticky, sugary 'honeydew' liquid which may attract other garden insects. Ants have been seen shepherding aphids and harvesting their sweet honeydew for consumption for themselves and their ant colonies. The honeydew can also turn black with mold and look like a layer of dark ash, or soot, on the leaves and stems, ruining the beauty of an ornamental plant.
Small populations of Aphids are generally not a major problem for gardeners, however, they are really fast at reproducing. Large populations can take over a crop if not controlled. Many gardeners buy containers of live lady beetles (ladybugs) to spread over their garden in an attempt to curb population growth of aphids; success is varied as a lady beetle may leave the release area before making an impact on the Aphid population. Recognizing and allowing fire beetles and parasitic wasps to visit the infested plants can also aid in reducing aphid numbers naturally and curb plant damage. Chemical pesticides that specifically kill aphids also exist, but usually require multiple applications because they may only be effective at certain life stages and colonies often consist of different developmental ages.
Known Diet of the Aphids
plant juices, typically from stems and leaves
General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
* MAP NOTES: The territorial heat map above showcases (in red) the states and territories of North America where the Aphids may be found (but is not limited to). This sort of data is useful when attempting to see concentrations of particular species across the continent as well as revealing possible migratory patterns over a species' given lifespan. Some insects are naturally confined by environment, weather, mating habits, food resources and the like while others see widespread expansion across most, or all, of North America. States/Territories shown above are a general indicator of areas inhabited by the Aphids. Insects generally go where they please, typically driven by diet, environmental changes, and / or mating habits.
Colors: green; black; yellow 
