Aleyrodoidea
Aleyrodoidea
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Sternorrhyncha
- Superfamily: Aleyrodoidea
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aleyrodoidea: /ˌælɪˌroʊˈdɔɪdiə/
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Images
Summary
The Aleyrodidae, known as whiteflies, are small hemipterans that feed primarily on the undersides of plant leaves. With over 1550 species, they are significant agricultural pests capable of transmitting plant diseases and causing extensive economic losses.
Physical Characteristics
Small insects, most with a wingspan of less than 3 mm and a body length of 1 mm to 2 mm; some 'giant whitefly' species exceed 5 mm. Adult Aleyrodidae have well-developed antennae (usually seven-segmented), two ocelli, functional mouthparts, and two pairs of membranous wings. The legs are well developed and gracile. Some species exhibit sexual dimorphism.
Identification Tips
Adult Aleyrodidae can be identified by their compound eyes, which often have a distinct constriction or complete separation between upper and lower halves; checking wing venation can also aid identification.
Habitat
Commonly found on the undersides of leaves; prevalent in warm or tropical climates, particularly in greenhouses.
Distribution
Worldwide distribution; over 1550 species described, with notable concentration in tropical and temperate regions.
Diet
Sap-feeders that primarily feed on the phloem of plants, injecting toxic saliva.
Life Cycle
Whiteflies exhibit hemimetabolous metamorphosis; starting as mobile larvae that attach to host plants, usually undergoing four larval instars before reaching the pupal stage.
Reproduction
Eggs are laid near each other on leaves in spiral patterns. Some species can reproduce parthenogenically; females can mate with male offspring.
Predators
Natural enemies include green lacewings, ladybirds, minute pirate bugs, big-eyed bugs, damsel bugs, and phytoseiid mites.
Ecosystem Role
Act as pests in agricultural ecosystems and play a role in honeydew production, which benefits some ants and fungi.
Economic Impact
Significant agricultural threat; estimated losses in crop production reach hundreds of millions of dollars annually due to transmission of plant diseases and pest status.
Collecting Methods
- Using fine mesh screening
- Leaf inspection for traces of whiteflies
Preservation Methods
- Dried specimens
- Ethanol preservation
Evolution
Ancestors belong to the Mesozoic subfamily Bernaeinae, with extant subfamilies appearing in the Lower Cretaceous.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
The family was often incorrectly referred to as 'Aleurodidae' in older literature, which is a junior synonym.
Tags
- Whiteflies
- Aleyrodidae
- Pests
- Agriculture
- Hemiptera