What characterizes the aphid life cycle?

The life cycle of aphids is characterized by the ability to reproduce through a method known as ovoviviparity, where embryos develop inside the mother and are born as live nymphs rather than as eggs. This process allows for rapid population growth, especially in favorable environmental conditions. Aphids typically do not require mating to produce offspring during certain times of the year, enabling them to quickly populate areas where food sources are abundant.

Option B highlights this unique reproductive strategy effectively, demonstrating how it allows aphids to adapt swiftly to their environment. In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent their life cycle characteristics. For instance, aphids are not confined to laying eggs solely; they often reproduce live young. They also lack a true larval stage in the soil, developing directly from nymphs to adults. Additionally, aphids do not undergo complete metamorphosis like some other insects that have distinct larval, pupal, and adult stages. Instead, they maintain a more direct development lineage, moving from nymph to adult without the transformation typically seen in fully metamorphic insects.