
Community identification
Whitefly (likely greenhouse whitefly)
Trialeurodes vaporariorum
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera; Aleyrodidae
- Size
- Adults are about 1–2 mm long, with a similar wingspan.
Natural Habitat
Undersides of leaves in gardens, greenhouses, and temperate or tropical vegetation; adults may rest on nearby surfaces.
Diet & Feeding
Adults and nymphs suck phloem sap from plants, especially vegetables, ornamentals, and houseplants. They excrete honeydew, which can promote sooty mold.
Behavior Patterns
Adults fly readily when foliage is disturbed and often cluster on leaf undersides. Females lay eggs on leaves; nymphs remain attached and develop through several sedentary stages.
Risks & Benefits
They can weaken plants, cause yellowing, and transmit some plant viruses; infestations may also attract ants and produce sooty mold. They have little direct benefit, though they are prey for lady beetles, lacewings, and parasitoid wasps.