Identification key for pseudopupa of whiteflies of the genus Aleurodicus (Hemiptera: Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) regulated by the requirements of countries importing Russian products

This study is devoted to the development of an identification key to pseudopupa of whiteflies of the genus Aleurodicus (Hemiptera: Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) playing an important role in phytosanitary control and subject to control by countries importing Russian agricultural products. Within the framework of this work, four key types are considered: Aleurodicus cocois Curtis, 1846; Aleurodicus destructor Mackie, 1912; Aleurodicus dispersus Russell, 1965 and Aleurodicus floccissimus (Martin, Hérnandez-Suarez & Carnero, 1997). These species pose a significant threat to crop production in import regions (Quaintance, 1908).

Based on the original material provided by the entomology laboratory of the Testing Laboratory Center of the All-Russian Plant Quarantine Center and the insect taxonomy laboratory of the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ZIN RAS), a detailed comparative analysis of the morphological characteristics of the above species at the pseudopupa stage (4th larval stage) was carried out. Particular attention was paid to the creation of an illustrative key, which significantly simplifies the process of identifying pests by quarantine service specialists.

The obtained results include updated and detailed information on the external features and structure of pseudopupa of the studied species. The work reflects original photographs that clearly demonstrate the key diagnostic characters of each species, a comparative table is presented, focusing on the main pseudopupa morphological characters. This approach helps to increase the accuracy of diagnostics and minimize the risks of erroneous pest identification.

The developed key is an important tool for ensuring phytosanitary safety and compliance with international phytosanitary standards, ensuring effective protection of the plant world from invasive species.

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