Morphological and molecular identification of the woolly whitefly, Aleurothrixus floccosus (Maskell)

Detection and accurate identification of invasive species is crucial to halting or mitigating their introduction and establishment. Species identification of whiteflies (Aleyrodidae) has been based almost entirely on characteristics of the fourth instar nymph, also known as the pupa or puparium; characteristics of the adults of only a few species are known and have been published. Diagnostic morphological features of the puparium and adults of the woolly whitefly, Aleurothrixus floccosus (Maskell), a Neotropical species and recent invasive species in India, are described based on specimens collected on guava (Psidium guajava) in Peninsular India. Characteristics of puparium and adults of this species given in published and unpublished literature including the female cement gland of A. floccosus are described and illustrated. The results of molecular analysis of the of COI gene indicate the genetic relatedness of A. floccosus with Aleurothrixus trachoides (Back) and Aleurotrachelus atratus Hempel collected on peppers and coconut, respectively in India. Strict quarantine measures are warranted to stop the entry of such biosecurity threats to the country.

Automated summary

Detection and identification of invasive species like whiteflies are crucial for preventing their introduction and establishment. This study focuses on the characteristics of the puparium and adults of the woolly whitefly, Aleurothrixus floccosus, a recent invasive species in India. The findings provide valuable information for quarantine measures and highlight the genetic relatedness of A. floccosus to other whitefly species.