Description:

• Whitefly is prevalent in warm and dry conditions, especially during the warm months of the year, as it multiplies very fast.
• They mainly infest papaya at a tender age, leading to reduced yields, stunted plant growth, and low-quality fruits.

Damage Symptoms:

• Chlorosis and necrotic spots occur on the leaves, which turn brown and curl in the regions where whiteflies feed.
• They secrete sticky Honeydew on leaf surfaces, promoting the growth of sooty mould that inhibits photosynthesis.
• In severe infestations, complete leaf drop may occur, leading to reduced fruit size and inferior market quality.
• Whitefly also transmits the Papaya Leaf Curl Virus (PLCV).

Preventive Measures:

• Install yellow sticky traps in the field.

Control Measures:

• Apply neem oil (5 ml/litre) as a foliar spray to control whiteflies.
• If the infestation is severe, a chemical spray of Imidacloprid (0.4 ml/l) or Acetamiprid (0.2 g/l) can be used to control the pest.