
White Fly
WHAT IT IS AND HOW TO ELIMINATE
Arándano
White Fly
Aleuroplatus Vaccinii
Pathogen:
Insect
Type:
Risk to the plant:
HIGH
Mosca blanca


WHO CAUSES IT?
Aleuroplatus vaccinii is a species of whitefly that mainly affects blueberry crops. Adult females lay their eggs on the underside of leaves, usually in groups. The eggs are small, oval and yellowish in color. After a few days, the eggs hatch and nymphs emerge, which go through several stages of development. During the early stages, the nymphs are mobile and move around the plant in search of suitable places to feed. In the later stages, the nymphs attach to the leaf and begin to suck the sap from the plant, causing the appearance of weakening symptoms. The nymphs transform into pupae, from which winged adults emerge. The adults also feed on the sap and can live for several weeks, during which they reproduce and continue the cycle. The rapid multiplication of this pest and its ability to disperse easily make it a significant challenge for blueberry growers.
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SYMPTOMS
The infestation of Aleuroplatus vaccinii in blueberries causes the disease known as whitefly, which weakens the plant and significantly reduces the quality and quantity of the fruits. The insects suck the sap from the leaves, excreting a sugary substance called honeydew, which promotes the growth of sooty mold fungi, darkening the leaves and fruits.
- Leaves with yellow Taches and chlorosis.
- Presence of molasses in the leaves and fruits.
- Development of sooty mold on affected surfaces.
- Reduction in plant vigor and growth.
- Loss of leaves and defoliation.
- Fruits of smaller size and quality.
- Visible presence of adults and nymphs on the underside of the leaves.



DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS
Temperature:
20-30°C
Humidity:
60-80%

HOW IS IT SPREAD?
Movement of infected plants, dispersal of flying adults, wind, contaminated machinery, infected plant material

HOW TO ELIMINATE IT?
Home treatments
Natural allies
Chemical treatments
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS TO ELIMINATE THE PEST

PLANTAS REPELENTES
Basil, Calendula, Wormwood (Artemisia), Mint

RECOMMENDATIONS
- Check the underside of the leaves frequently, especially in hot weather.
- If you see leaves with honeydew or white spots, remove them carefully.
- Use yellow sticky traps to catch adults.
- Increase ventilation if the plants are close together or indoors.
- Wash the leaves with a mixture of water, potassium soap and Neem oil to eliminate insects.
- Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs or parasitic wasps if possible.
- If the pest is strong, you can use chemical insecticides.