Which pests are categorized as chewing pests?

Chewing pests are characterized by their feeding behavior, which involves biting and tearing plant tissue. Caterpillars are a prime example of chewing pests, as they possess chewing mouthparts that allow them to consume leaves and other plant materials effectively. This feeding habit can lead to significant damage to plants, making them a concern in agricultural and horticultural settings.

In contrast, mealybugs and whiteflies are examples of sucking pests. They use their specialized mouthparts to pierce plant tissue and extract sap, which can weaken the plant and lead to other problems, such as the spread of diseases. Aphids are also classified as sucking pests for the same reasons. Understanding the distinction between chewing and sucking pests is essential for implementing proper pest management strategies, as controlling these different types of pests often requires different approaches.