Aleuropleurocelus
Drews & Sampson, 1956
Species Guides
1Aleuropleurocelus is a of whiteflies (Aleyrodidae) in the suborder Sternorrhyncha. The genus includes that are phytophagous pests of woody plants. One undescribed species close to A. acaudatus has been documented as a significant pest of native Mexican avocados (Persea americana) in southern Coahuila, where it is subject to substantial natural by aphelinid .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aleuropleurocelus: /æˌlʊəroʊˌplʊəroʊˈsɛləs/
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Identification
Members of this can be distinguished from other whitefly genera by pupal case , including the arrangement of wax-secreting pores and the shape of the vasiform orifice. Specific identification requires examination of fourth-instar nymphs or pupal cases under magnification. The genus is placed in the Aleyrodidae based on typical whitefly characteristics: small size, powdery wax coating, and two pairs of wings held roof-like over the body in .
Habitat
Native Mexican avocado orchards (Persea americana) in southern Coahuila, Mexico. The is associated with woody plants.
Distribution
Documented from the municipalities of Parras and Matamoros in Coahuila, Mexico. The specific record of Aleuropleurocelus aff. acaudatus on avocado represents a new and geographic record for whiteflies on this crop in Mexico. The broader distribution of the beyond this region is not documented in available sources.
Seasonality
Nymphs present during November, January, March, April, and May based on sampling conducted from November 2012 through May 2013.
Diet
Phloem-feeding on leaves of native Mexican avocado (Persea americana).
Host Associations
- Persea americana - plantNative Mexican avocado; new record for whitefly on this crop in Mexico
Life Cycle
Fourth-instar nymphs have been documented on avocado leaves. Complete details including , earlier instars, and are not described in available sources.
Ecological Role
Pest of native avocado crops. Subject to natural by aphelinid , with natural rates averaging 56.8%.
Human Relevance
Agricultural pest of native Mexican avocado orchards. The documented by Eretmocerus perseae and Encarsia macula suggests potential for management.
Similar Taxa
- Other Aleyrodidae generaDistinguished by pupal case , particularly the arrangement of wax pores and vasiform orifice structure.
- Aleuropleurocelus acaudatusThe documented in Coahuila is close to but distinct from A. acaudatus, suggesting morphological similarity requiring careful examination for separation.
More Details
Parasitoid complex
Two aphelinid parasitize this whitefly: Eretmocerus perseae (, comprising 94% of individuals) and Encarsia macula. Combined natural averages 56.8%.
Taxonomic status
The attacking avocado is referred to as Aleuropleurocelus aff. acaudatus, indicating affinity to but distinction from A. acaudatus. Formal species description may be pending.