What characteristic defines a holocyclic life cycle in aphids generally?

Answer

It involves both asexual reproduction during the growing season and a sexual phase that produces overwintering eggs

A holocyclic life cycle is defined by its completeness, requiring the participation of both primary reproductive modes utilized by aphids across their annual cycle. This means the population relies on asexual reproduction, often coupled with viviparity, to maximize numbers during favorable growing seasons when resources are plentiful. Critically, this cycle also incorporates a sexual phase, typically triggered by environmental cues in the fall, which results in the production of genetically diverse, durable eggs. These eggs are specially adapted to overwinter successfully, providing the species with a robust survival mechanism against harsh seasonal changes, unlike the anholocyclic cycle which omits the sexual phase entirely.

What characteristic defines a holocyclic life cycle in aphids generally?
biologyinsectevolutionpestwoolly aphid