The cotton whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a serious pest of fibre and horticultural and ornamental crops worldwide. When present in sufficient numbers, it can cause extensive damage through direct feeding, the production of large quantities of honeydew and as a vector of many viruses. A new biotype was first identified in the USA, known as the B-type or poinsettia strain. Overseas, the B-type B, fabric is a primary pest on cotton, other vegetable crops (curcubits, tomatoes, rock melons) and ornamentals. This strain is extremely virulent, insecticide resistant, adapts to temperate climates and has a host range of over 500 plants. B-biotype B.tabaci were detected for the first time in Australia in October 1994 in both Darwin and Tamworth. During 1994/95, the Cotton Research and Development Corporation funded a survey to determine the current Australian distribution of B-type B. tabaci and its insecticide resistance status. Investigations suggest that the B-biotype B.tabaci was first introduced into Australia in late 1993, via poinsettias which were legally imported from California in the United States to Coffs Harbour (NSW). Our surveys show that this whitefly is well established and widespread in eastern Australia and eradication is not considered possible. The whitefly has not yet been detected in Victoria, South Australia or Western Australia, however it is very likely that infested plants have been sent to these states.