Tuta absoluta is a small moth that can have major consequences for tomato cultivation in a short period of time. The larvae cause damage to leaves, stems and fruits, weakening the crop and putting pressure on product quality. Due to rapid development and successive generations, pest pressure can increase rapidly, making timely recognition and preventive measures essential.
Tuta absoluta, also known as tomato leafminer, is an invasive insect measuring approximately 6—7 mm. The adult moths are mainly active at night and hide in the crop during the day. The larvae feed on the tissue of leaves, stems and fruits, causing damage to the leaf passages and causing necrotic spots. This can lead to a weakened crop and a loss of quality of the harvest.
The moth has a rapid life cycle. Under favorable conditions, the development from egg to adult insect can only take a few weeks. Females lay their eggs on leaves or stems, allowing multiple generations per crop cycle. This rapid reproductive capacity makes timely detection and control crucial.
Early signaling is essential to limit damage. This can be done via:
Through this combination of monitoring, an incipient infection can be quickly detected and addressed.
An integrated strategy is essential to keep Tuta absoluta under control. Several measures can be combined here.
In some cases, chemical plant protection products may be part of the control of Tuta absoluta. However, their use is increasingly regulated by national and European legislation. As a result, the focus is increasingly on preventive, mechanical and biological solutions.
Insect netting is one of the most effective preventative measures against Tuta absoluta and is an important part of an integrated strategy. By installing fine-mesh netting in vents, vents and doors:
Insect netting forms a physical barrier that provides a first line of defense. In combination with monitoring and biological measures, it can effectively reduce pest pressure and significantly reduce the risk of damage caused by Tuta absoluta. Make sure that the insect screen chosen has a mesh size that is impenetrable to the Tuta absoluta. Suitable insect screens: Ornata Plus 80, Ornata Addu 80100 and Ornata Light 2.0.
Thorough cleaning and removal of crop residues during crop rotation reduces the risk of re-contamination. Immediately after replanting, monitoring can be started again to quickly detect and control any introductions.
Tuta absoluta remains an important challenge in tomato cultivation. Despite its small size, the moth can cause significant damage to leaves, stems, and fruits. Through timely monitoring, the use of biological and preventive measures and physical barriers such as insect screens, pest pressure can be effectively limited. Integrating these measures into a complete management program is crucial to minimize the impact of this pest and to protect the yield and quality of the crop.
