Measures to Control White Flies in Okra Crop

Whiteflies are sap-sucking insects belonging to the family Aleyrodidae. They are typically white or pale yellow with four wings covered in a waxy powder. They are most active in warm weather and tend to gather on the undersides of leaves. Whiteflies extract plant sap, weakening the plant and hindering its growth. This can lead to yield losses ranging from 10% to 50%, depending on the factors mentioned above. Many whitefly species act as vectors for plant viruses, which can cause widespread and devastating crop losses. In some cases, yield losses due to viruses transmitted by whiteflies can reach 100%.

• Type of Infestation: Pest
• Common Name: White Fly
• Causal Organism: Bemisia tabaci
• Affected Parts Of the plant: Leaves, Stem

Identification: Whiteflies are tiny, winged insects, about the size of a gnat, with white bodies and dusty wings. They are most commonly found on the undersides of leaves, where they feed on the plant's sap.

Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:

• Warm and dry weather: Whiteflies prefer warm temperatures (between 75-85°F) and dry conditions with low humidity. These conditions allow for faster development, reproduction, and reduced activity of natural predators.
• Lack of sunlight: Densely planted okra crops with poor sunlight penetration create shaded areas where whiteflies can hide and reproduce undisturbed.

 Symptoms of Pest/Disease:

•  Whiteflies feed on the sap of plants, which can stunt growth, yellow leaves, and make plants weak.
• They also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and encourage the growth of sooty mold, a black fungus that further harms plants.
• Some whitefly species can transmit plant viruses, causing even more damage.

Measures to control Pests/Diseases: