Aleurocanthus spiniferus

Orange spiny whitefly

Description

Aleurocanthus spiniferus (orange spiny whitefly or citrus spiny whitefly) is a tropical insect native to southeastern Asia and widespread in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Its presence was first reported in Italy in 2008, with subsequent reports in other countries as in Greece, Bulgaria, Montenegro, and Croatia within Europe. The adult orange spiny whitefly has blue-gray metallic wings. Eggs are laid in spirals on under surface; “crawlers” at first, and then flattened dark legless larvae accurs on the leaves. It undergoes several developmental stages, with the entire life cycle occurring on leaves. Nymphs feed on plant sap, causing damage. Orange spiny whiteflies can withstand temperatures above 40°C but cannot survive below 0°C. They pose a threat to citrus crops by sucking sap and promoting the growth of sooty mold, which can cover leaves, fruits, and branches. Important pest on citrus, roses and tea plants.