Cotton or melon aphid
- Pronunciation
- /COT-ton or MEL-on AY-fid/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Cotton or melon aphid
- Plural
- Cotton or melon aphids
Definition
A common name for the insect *Aphis gossypii*, a major pest of crops and a significant vector of plant viruses.
Etymology
Derived from its association with cotton crops and the melon family (Cucurbitaceae) which it also attacks.
Example
The cotton or melon aphid is a serious pest of cucurbits, causing significant yield losses.