Spatial analysis of silverleaf whitefly and tomato yellow leaf curl virus in tomato using geographical information systems

The silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia argentifolii (also known as biotype B of the sweetpotato whitefly, B. tabaci), is the key insect pest of tomato in southern Florida. Most damage associated with the whitefly is due to the transmission of plant viruses, the most damaging of which is Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV). An analysis of distribution data of the silverleaf whitefly and TYLCV using geographical information systems points to local hotspots within fields not related to tomato production areas. Results suggest that multiple invasions of silverleaf whitefly are influenced by cultural manipulations, weed hosts and weather events.