Distribution and Genetic Variability of Bemisia tabaci Cryptic Species (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in Italy.

ABSTRACT: Bemisia tabaci is a key pest of horticultural, fibre and ornamental crops worldwide, primarily as a vector of plant viruses. In Italy, B. tabaci has established since the 1980s-1990s in southern regions as well as in Sicily and Sardinia. Recent reports of infestations in some areas of central Italy prompted a new survey to assess the whitefly distribution in the country as well as to update the species and haplotype composition of the populations present in southern Italy and in the main islands. The survey confirmed that B. tabaci is nowadays established in central Italy even at more northern latitudes than those noticed before. Most of the specimens collected throughout the country belonged to the Mediterranean (MED) species. The MEDQ1 and Q2 haplogroups were prevail

SUBMITTER: Bertin S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8229085 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature