Whitefly

Symptom

Whitefly infestations are more prevalent under warm and dry weather conditions and in densely planted crops. The insects feed by sucking sap from the underside of leaves, leading to leaf yellowing and leaf curling, either upwards or downwards. Infected plants exhibit stunted growth, become dwarfed, and may fail to produce fruit. If infestation occurs during fruiting, the fruits may develop uneven ripening. Additionally, the honeydew excreted by whiteflies promotes the growth of sooty mold, further affecting plant health. Whiteflies are also vectors of viral diseases, making them one of the most damaging pests in tomato cultivation.