Aleyrodoidea

Definition

A superfamily of small, whitefly-like insects known as whiteflies. They are characterized by their piercing-sucking mouthparts and the production of honeydew.

Etymology

From Greek 'aleuro-', meaning 'flour', referring to the powdery white wax covering the wings of these insects, and 'oeides', meaning 'resembling'.

Example

Aleyrodoidea are important agricultural pests due to their ability to transmit plant viruses.

Related Terms

• Whiteflies
• Sternorrhyncha
• Plant viruses

Usage Notes

Aleyrodoidea are often found in greenhouses and on crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers.