What is a common visual indicator of sucking insects?

Sucking insects, such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, feed by piercing plant tissues and drawing out sap. This feeding method often leads to the distinct appearance of yellow or white stippling on leaves. As they remove sap, they cause localized damage that manifests as small, discolored spots or stipples, which can be yellow or white depending on the plant species and the severity of the infestation.

This visual symptom is particularly telling, as it can help in early identification of pest issues before they cause more extensive damage. While other symptoms like leaf curling upwards can also suggest insect activity, this specific stippling is more directly associated with the feeding behavior of sucking insects. Other indicators, such as brown trails or full leaf discoloration, are less characteristic of sucking pests and are often related to different types of damage or stress factors affecting the plant.