GENERAL IDENTIFICATION

Two species of whiteflies are commonly found as pests in greenhouses: the Silverleaf Whitefly Bemisia argentifolii and the Greenhouse Whitefly Trialeurodes vaporariorum.  The adults are recognizable by the fact that they have 4 white powdery wings ( unlike true flies which have only 2 wings ), and when disturbed they scatter very quickly.  the eggs which are usually laid on the underside of the leaves, hatch in 4-12 days into active crawling nymphs, which within two hours of hatching will find a suitable spot and start feeding.

These immature nymphs will remain feeding in the same spot and after a series of molts will finally emerge as a mature and mobile adult whitefly.

The period of time for this development to take place will depend on the temperature conditions but will be fastest under warm conditions ( 26 - 32 degrees C ).

During the course of feeding on plant tissues, the immature nymphs will excrete 'honeydew' in a similar way that aphids, soft scale and mealybugs do.  this honeydew then provides a good medium for the growth of a Sooty Mold fungus that attacks and kills the plant.

On completing this request form, you will receive a detailed monitoring guide providing you with information on trap placement, assessment of larval damage and how to record and act on the information that you get. This will take away much of the guesswork, help to prevent wasted treatment and keep you in control of the pest situation throughout the season.

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