Whitefly

Natural Habitat

Typically found on the undersides of leaves in gardens, greenhouses, and agricultural fields; they are pantropical but common indoors on houseplants.

Diet & Feeding

They use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on the phloem (sap) of plants, affecting over 600 species including vegetables and ornamentals.

Behavior Patterns

They are active during the day and fly in small clouds when disturbed. They excrete a sticky substance called honeydew which can lead to sooty mold growth on leaves.

Risks & Benefits

They are significant agricultural pests that cause plant yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. They are major vectors for over 100 different plant viruses; they offer no direct benefits to humans.

Identified on: 4/12/2026