Aleurodicus dispersus Russell (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae), a possible vector of the lethal yellowing disease of coconut palms.
Weems H. V. Jr.
Author Affiliation: Bureau of Entomology, Division of Plant Industry, Florida Department of Agriculture, Gainsville, USA.
: 2 pp.
Abstract : Among the arthropod pests of economic plants in Florida [cf. preceding abstract, etc.] are Aleurodicus dispersus Russell, which damages trees and shrubs of many different families, including Citrus, avocado, banana, mango and various ornamentals, both directly by feeding on sap from the leaves and indirectly by excreting honeydew that encourages the development of sooty mould, which in turn hinders photosynthesis. This Aleyrodid is also suspected of being a vector of lethal yellowing disease, which in the last 15 years has caused the loss of over 90% of the coconut palms in the Florida Keys. Notes are given on the appearance of the adult, egg and pupa, and the plants are enumerated on which A. dispersus has been found; not all of these are certainly known to be food-plants on which it can develop.ADDITIONAL ABSTRACT:The food-plants of Aleurodicus dispersus Russell are listed. The species is briefly described and all stages are illustrated.