They also prepare the ground for unwanted black fungi, and some species also spread viral diseases. Scientists at Bayer CropScience have developed a crop protection agent that keeps these sap thieves away from crops. The active ingredient blocks nerve cell receptors for an enzyme that regulates the insects’ muscle relaxation. The product is now approved for use in more than 150 crops and ensures aphid-free cultivation of fruit, vegetables, soybeans, cotton, potatoes, rice and many more.