Aphids: Weird Poop, Weirder Babies

Aphids, often seen as pests, are small insects that damage plants by sucking sap. They have unique survival strategies, including producing honeydew, forming symbiotic relationships with ants, and reproducing rapidly through parthenogenesis. Aphids can adapt to environmental changes by developing wings to find new habitats. Their reproductive cycle includes both asexual and sexual phases, allowing them to thrive in various conditions.

What are the defensive mechanisms that aphids use to protect themselves from predators?

Describe the life cycle of aphids and how environmental changes can influence their reproduction.