Aphid

Symptom

The insects are observed in yellow, black, and dark green colors and exist in two forms: wingless and winged. The nymphs and wingless adults infest and damage the plant’s tender parts, including leaves, buds, and stems. Aphids also serve as vectors for numerous viral diseases, facilitating their transmission. The honeydew excreted by aphids promotes the growth of black sooty mold, further affecting plant health. These pests can be found on leaves, stems, and fruits throughout the plant’s lifecycle, starting from around 10 days after emergence. In pre-monsoon rice crops, infestations typically occur between January and August, potentially reducing yield by 16% to 55%.