Attractiveness and Oviposition Preference of Whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Genn) as Influenced by Leaf Trichomes

This study evaluated the influence of leaf trichomes in cucumber, chili and brinjal on adult whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Genn) as regards their attractiveness and oviposition preference. Morphological observations revealed the presence of non-glandular trichomes on abaxial leaf surfaces. These were found distributed densely on brinjal leaves but sparsely on cucumber, while chilli did not have any trichomes. Significantly more abundant eggs and adults of B. tabaci were observed on brinjal leaves than on cucumber and chili. A clear preference for egg laying was observed with branches of brinjal leaves, at the base of the trichome stalk of cucumber; and in the form of incomplete circular patterns on chilli leaves. These results suggest that farmers should adopt mixed cropping taking into account the type and density trichome, as this impacts the preference of adult B. tabaci, and thereby support IPM.