Arthropods Daily – Issue No. 181

Summary: Aphids are small insects found worldwide, but are most common in temperate zones. They have soft bodies and come in various colors. They primarily feed on the sap of plants, particularly from the phloem vessels. They can migrate long distances through passive dispersal by winds. Some species have the ability to synthesize carotenoids and absorb solar energy. Aphids have a complex reproductive strategy involving asexual and sexual reproduction, as well as migration between different host plants. Some species also exhibit traits of eusociality, forming colonies and defending their gall formations.