Whiteflies

Definition

Minute sap-sucking insects of the family Aleyrodidae (superfamily Aleyrodoidea), characterized by white, waxy, powdery wings and a habit of feeding on the undersides of leaves. They are true bugs (Hemiptera) with piercing-sucking mouthparts and incomplete metamorphosis; many species are significant agricultural pests that vector plant viruses and excrete honeydew, promoting sooty mold growth.

Etymology

From the white, mealy wax covering the wings and body of adults.

Example

The silverleaf whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) is a globally invasive species that transmits begomoviruses to tomatoes and cassava, causing devastating crop losses in tropical and subtropical regions.

Synonyms

• aleyrodids

Related Terms

• Hemiptera
• Sternorrhyncha
• Aphids
• scale insects
• Mealybugs
• honeydew
• Vector
• Integrated Pest Management
• Biological control
• Encarsia formosa

Usage Notes

Despite the common name, whiteflies are not true flies (Diptera) but hemipterans. The family Aleyrodidae is the sole family in its superfamily. Species identification often requires microscopic examination of pupal cases; the term 'whitefly' in agricultural contexts frequently refers to pest complexes dominated by Bemisia tabaci and Trialeurodes vaporariorum. Some species are host-specific, while others are extreme generalists.