The development, survival, reproduction, and life-span of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) on six major cotton varieties (Xinluzao 8, Xinluzao 16, Xinluzao 17, Zhongmian 35, Kang 5, and Dai 80) in Xinjiang were studied under the conditions of (26 +/- 1) degrees C, relative humidity (75 +/- 1)%, and illumination L:D = 16:8 in laboratory. The life table of the B. tabaci experimental population was established, and the population net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (rm), mean generation time (T), and finite growth rate (A) were estimated. Significant differences were observed in the size, development duration, survival, and fecundity of the experimental population on the six cotton varieties. The fecundity and survival rate of B. tabaci were the highest on Xinluzao 16 and the lowest on Kang 5. Xinluzao 16 was the most appropriate host for the growth and development of B. tabaci population, followed by Zhongmian 35, while Kang 5 was the most unsuitable host.