The Krasnodar region was recently invaded by the tomato moth (Tuta absoluta). Tomato moth originates from South America where it has become a serious threat to tomatoes grown both in greenhouses and in the field since 1980.
In 2014 tomato moth was included in the list of quarantine objects of the Russian Federation. The pest has already crossed the border of the Krasnodar region and in case it spreads, can harm not only tomatoes but other nightshade family varieties too.
In 2015 tomato moth was discovered in the region at the Kunpanova polyana enterprise, with an acreage of 56 ha, and at the Rosinka enterprise with an acreage of 17 ha.
Tomato moth’s danger potential is very high, it harms and destroys tomato produce and causes significant economic damage. Even though tomato is the main feeder for the pest, it can also harm potatoes, eggplants, bell peppers and nightshade family weeds.
As the experience of other countries shows, the pest is difficult to fight, the main elements of the integrated tomato protection system from tomato moth being agro-engineering and chemical measures.
Pheromone, water and yellow sticky traps have proven effective for the monitoring and mass destruction of tomato moth butterflies.
In order to prevent further spreading of tomato moth in the Krasnodar region the agronomists of greenhouse complexes, growers and farmers should be informed of the risks and be prepared to take all measures of localization and liquidizing of the dangerous pest centers.
Source nrnews.ru