Diversity of whiteflies (Aleyrodidae: Homoptera) in Punjab (Pakistan)

Abstract

The present research on diversity of whiteflies in the Punjab has resulted in the identification of 70 species under 19 genera and one subfamily. Of these, 10 species are new to science and 27 are new records for Pakistan. Keys have been prepared for different genera and species in the Punjab. The new species have been illustrated and described in detail, while only the differential characters, if any, are given in case of genera and already described species. The distribution of species in the Punjab has also been mapped out. Of the whitefly species found in different areas of the Punjab, Faisalabad, Multan, Rahim Yar Khan and Sialkot had the higher species richness than other regions sampled in this study. The species evenness was highest in Dera Ghazi Khan. Species richness and evenness were calculated using Shannon-Weiner biodiversity indices