Whiteflies and black flies (Aleurocanthus woglumi)
Credit: Biovision-Infonet
(c) A.M.Varela, icipe
Whiteflies and black flies suck sap from leaves and may weaken the plants when numbers are high. They produce large amount of honeydew where sooty mould develops. High numbers of these insects can almost blacken trees, reducing photosynthesis and may cause leaf drop debilitating the tree.
Adults are small (1-3 mm long), with 2 pairs of wings that are held roof-like over the body. They resemble very small moths.
What to do:
- Conserve natural enemies. They usually provide good control of these pests. For more information on Natural enemies click here.
- If necessary spray neem extracts. Neem products inhibit growth and development of immature stages, repel whitefly adults and reduce egg laying.