Our analysis of the pea aphid genome has begun to reveal the
genetic underpinnings of this animal’s complex ecology—including its capacity to parasitize agricultural crops, its association with
microbial symbionts, and its developmental patterning. One
project benefiting from the availability of the genome sequence
is the investigation of aphid saliva proteins [12] thought critical for
host plant feeding. This highlights the ability of the genome to
facilitate future exploration of both basic and applied biological
problems.