Whitefly

Natural Habitat

Found on the undersides of leaves of various plants, especially in greenhouses, nurseries, and outdoor gardens in warm climates. They thrive in protected environments with consistent temperatures.

Diet & Feeding

Plant sap, specifically from the phloem of host plants. They are polyphagous, feeding on a wide range of ornamental, vegetable, and field crops.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs and adults feed by sucking sap from the underside of leaves. They excrete honeydew, a sticky substance, which can lead to sooty mold growth. Whiteflies typically reproduce rapidly, with multiple overlapping generations per year. Adults are winged and can fly short distances or be carried by wind.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Whiteflies are significant agricultural and horticultural pests. Their feeding causes direct damage (yellowing, wilting, stunting of plants), and the honeydew they secrete promotes the growth of black sooty mold, which reduces photosynthesis and aesthetic value. They can also transmit plant viruses. Benefits: Generally considered pests, so direct benefits are minimal, though they can be a food source for natural predators.

Identified on: 7/1/2025