Life-history parameters of different biotypes of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) species complex were reviewed. This included the B-biotype of B. tabaci, identified as B. argentifolii (Bellows & Perring). Comparisons were made among different biotypes on cotton, among host plants for biotype B and among the whitefly species B. tabaci and Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood), the greenhouse whitefly. The biotype identification of different populations of B. tabaci was summarized in a table. Biotypes discussed were A, B, Indian and biotypes of the Old World group. Temperature dependent relationships were estimated for egg development rate, development rate from egg to adult, immature mortality, adult longevity, sex-ratio, pre-oviposition period and fecundity. The fitted curves will be used as input for a simulation model of the population dynamics of B. tabaci in a greenhouse when parasitoids are released. The model makes it possible to evaluate the integrated effect of different life-history parameters and behavioural parameters of parasitoids on whitefly population levels in a greenhouse.