Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed by sucking the nutrient-rich liquids out of plants. They prefer grazing tender new growth over tougher established foliage and are known as the dairy cows of the insect world.

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Aphids are one of several other honeydew-producing insects and pests. Meanwhile, species of ants, bees and wasps actually harvest the honeydew, the latter use it to create a type of honey.