Silverleaf Whitefly on Solanaceous Crops
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Silverleaf whitefly (Bemisia argentifolii). Silverleaf whitefly is a relatively new pest to Kentucky. Silverleaf whitefly will not overwinter in Kentucky, however it may be brought in via transplants or greenhouse plants. The silverleaf whitefly can be distinguished from the greenhouse whitefly by looking at how it holds its wings. The silverleaf whitefly will usually hold its wings to its side with a space visible between them; the greenhouse whitefly often holds its wings tight on its back. Silverleaf whitefly larvae inject toxins into tomato fruit when feeding, leading to irregular ripening that can cause significant losses. Affected fruit will not ripen completely.
Silverleaf whitefly.
(Photo: UK Vegetable IPM Team)
Silverleaf whitefly damage on tomato.
(Photo: UK Vegetable IPM Team)
