Tetraleurodes mori

(Quaintance, 1899)

Mulberry Whitefly

Tetraleurodes mori is a of whitefly in the Aleyrodidae, commonly known as the Mulberry Whitefly. The species feeds on mulberry (Morus spp.) and related plants. It is a member of the Sternorrhyncha suborder, which includes sap-feeding insects with . Like other whiteflies, it produces waxy secretions and honeydew, and has been observed in association with its plants in Florida and other regions where mulberry grows.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tetraleurodes mori: /ˌtɛtrəˌljʊəˈroʊdiːz ˈmɔː.riː/

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Identification

Tetraleurodes mori can be distinguished from other whitefly by its association with mulberry and specific morphological features of the pupal case, including the arrangement of wax-producing pores and setae. The species belongs to the Tetraleurodes, which is characterized by pupal cases with distinct compound pores. Accurate identification typically requires examination of the fourth-instar nymph (pupa) under magnification, as whiteflies are generally difficult to distinguish visually from related species.

Distribution

The has been recorded in Florida (FLAOO) based on GBIF distribution data. Its range likely corresponds to areas where its primary plant, mulberry (Morus spp.), occurs.

Diet

Feeds on mulberry (Morus spp.) and related plants in the Morus.

Host Associations

Morus - primary mulberry

Ecological Role

As a sap-feeding insect, Tetraleurodes mori extracts phloem sap from its plants. It produces honeydew, which can support growth and may attract ants. The functions as a herbivore in its and may serve as prey for and other natural enemies of whiteflies.

Human Relevance

The has potential significance as a pest of mulberry trees, which are cultivated for fruit production, rearing, and ornamental purposes. Heavy may reduce plant vigor through sap removal and honeydew deposition.

Similar Taxa

Tetraleurodes ursorumCongeneric with overlapping range; requires examination of pupal case for differentiation
Bemisia tabaciCommon whitefly pest with broader range; distinguished by different pupal case structure and lack of specific association with mulberry
Trialeurodes vaporariorumGreenhouse whitefly with similar appearance; differs in preferences and pupal case features