Q.Leaves Bit Off at Stem
My sweet peppers are being defoliated at the stem. There is a clear bite wound that leaves a forked split (like a snake’s tongue) at the stem. I sprayed with Malathion, but the defoliation is spreading to other plants.

Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It may be rodents. They may be looking to eat small fruit and blossoms and are removing the leaves to make access easier. This article may help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/garden-mouse-control.htm