Tobacco Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci)
Highly invasive whitefly species capable of virus transmission and resistant to many pesticides.
Tobacco whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) is an invasive and economically important pest of protected crops worldwide. It feeds on many hosts including tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, salads and ornamentals. Damage includes honeydew, sooty mould, leaf yellowing and virus transmission. Biocontrol relies on parasitoids such as Encarsia formosa, Eretmocerus eremicus, predatory mites like Amblyseius swirskii, and generalist predators such as Macrolophus pygmaeus. Early preventative releases are essential to prevent population buildup.
Biological Controls for Tobacco Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci)
The options below are examples of beneficial insects and biological products commonly used against tobacco whitefly (bemisia tabaci). Always refer to supplier guidance and product labels for crop safety and local registration status.
Eretmocerus eremicus
Product: Eretline
Environment: glasshouse
Temperature Range: 18.0 – 32.0°C
Rate: 1–4 wasps/m² per week
Frequency: Weekly until scales well parasitised
Key parasitoid for Bemisia in tomatoes and ornamentals.
Related Biological Solutions
Growers dealing with tobacco whitefly (bemisia tabaci) often also monitor these pests as part of a complete IPM programme: