Illinois Field Crop Applicators Practice Test

Which group of pests is responsible for honeydew production in crops?

1. Leafhoppers

2. Japanese beetles and aphids

3. Spider mites

4. Whiteflies

The correct answer is: Japanese beetles and aphids

Honeydew is a sticky substance that is produced as a byproduct of feeding by certain sap-sucking insects. Among the pests listed, Japanese beetles and aphids are both known for their ability to produce honeydew, primarily due to their feeding habits. Japanese beetles feed on leaves and other plant parts, while aphids specifically target the sap from the plants they infest. Aphids are particularly notorious for honeydew production; they feed on phloem sap and excrete excess fluid rich in sugars, which accumulates on the foliage and can lead to the growth of sooty mold, impacting plant health and crop yields. Similarly, while Japanese beetles may not produce honeydew in the same manner as aphids, their feeding style can contribute to general plant stress that may create an environment where honeydew from aphids becomes a more significant issue. Understanding the role of these pests is crucial for integrated pest management strategies, as honeydew production indicates not only a pest presence but also potential secondary issues like mold or other pest infestations.