FFA Floriculture Practice Test

What are small green insects with piercing mouth parts commonly known as?

1. Mealybugs

2. Aphids

3. Spider mites

4. Scale insects

The correct answer is: Aphids

Small green insects with piercing mouthparts are commonly identified as aphids. These pests are known for their ability to extract sap from plants, which can lead to significant damage if infestations are severe. Their piercing mouthparts allow them to penetrate plant tissues and access the nutrient-rich sap, making them particularly problematic in a variety of horticultural settings. Aphids can reproduce quickly, leading to large populations that may overwhelm plants. This rapid reproduction, combined with their tendency to form colonies on the undersides of leaves, makes them a frequent concern for floriculture. Additionally, aphids can transmit plant viruses, further complicating their threat to plant health. In contrast, mealybugs are often white and fuzzy in appearance, spider mites are spider-like and can be red or sometimes green, and scale insects have a protective shell-like covering, making them distinct from aphids. Understanding the specific characteristics of these pests helps in identifying and managing pest issues effectively in the greenhouse or garden environment.