Biology
Environmental Triggers of Polyphenism in Aphid Wing Development
Quick fact
Aphids can switch from wingless to winged forms within a single generation when their colony becomes overcrowded or the host plant deteriorates, a change triggered by environmental signals like touch and alarm pheromones.
Why this is interesting
You've probably seen aphids on your rose bushes—tiny green insects. But did you know they can be born with or without wings depending on the situation?