25 Haz 2025 Çarşamba
New host record of acacia whitefly, Tetraleurodes acaciae (Aleyrodidae): An emerging pest of Mother of Cocoa, Gliricidia sepium (Fabaceae) from Kerala, India
Abstract : Whiteflies are highly invasive pests that threatens a wide range of crops. Gliricidia sepium, known for its pest-resistant properties, is a valuable multipurpose tree in agroforestry systems, contributing to nitrogen-fixation, soil enrichment and serving as fodder and fuelwood. However, recent reports of whiteflies (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) infestation on G. sepium, challenge its reputation for resistance. Whiteflies, recognised for their sap-sucking behaviour and role as vectors for plant viruses, pose a serious risk to the health and productivity of G. sepium. This study presents the first documented occurrence of whitefly infestation on G. sepium in Dharmadom, Kannur, Kerala.