Which pests are commonly found in greenhouse environments?

In greenhouse environments, pests that are commonly found include aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and thrips due to their small size and ability to thrive in the controlled conditions of a greenhouse. These pests are particularly problematic as they often reproduce quickly and have a wide range of host plants, which allows them to quickly infest and damage crops.

Aphids are known for sucking sap from plants, weakening them and potentially transmitting plant viruses. Spider mites can create webs and cause significant leaf damage through feeding. Whiteflies also feed on plant sap and can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. Thrips, while small, can cause distortion and scarring on flowers and leaves as they feed.

The other groups of pests listed, while they can occasionally be found in outdoor garden settings, are less commonly associated with greenhouse environments. Beetles and grasshoppers typically thrive in open fields or gardens. Snails and slugs prefer moist environments but are more often associated with outdoor gardens. Termites usually infest wooden structures and are not typically a threat to plants, while ants, although they may be present, tend to be more of a nuisance and often farm aphids for their honeydew rather than feeding on plants directly.