This report brings to an end months of speculation and disagreement about the presence of Q-biotype, after it was first discovered and “positively identified” by researchers from the high intensity vegetable-producing areas of Queensland. It now appears that the specimens in question were incorrectly identified as Q-biotype Bemisia tabaci, when they were in fact the common B-biotype.
 

The recent correction has significant implications as the Q-biotype is notoriously resistant to insecticides, notably Admiral Insect Growth Regulator -one of only a handful of products capable of controlling whiteflies in vegetables. Fortunately, confirmation of its absence now means that Admiral can still be used in the whitefly management program.
 

Inaccurate identification of Q-biotype whitefly had another unintended benefit. It highlighted the importance of rotating insecticides in whitely resistance management programs, and how valuable each effective product is. Alternating between different modes of action and adherence to resistance management programs are critical to preserving the limited number of chemical options for controlling Silverleaf whiteflies in vegetables.