Systematics of Bemisia and Bemisia Relatives: Can Molecular Techniques Solve the Bemisia tabaci Complex Conundrum – A Taxonomist’s Viewpoint

The whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius), has a long history as a serious pest of agriculture worldwide. One of the most serious attacks began in 1985–1986 in Florida where very heavy populations infested ornamental and crop plants. By 1990, it had reached the fertile desert croplands of southern Arizona and California, where clouds of whiteflies could be seen flying over the desert valleys.