The answer to this question can be found in the conclusions of a study about wild predators in the control of the Tuta absoluta (one of the biggest enemies in tomato cultivation) that was carried out by researchers from the Andalusian agricultural and horticultural research institute IFAPA in collaboration with the nature association Serbal.
During a study conducted in the spring and early summer of 2022, feces were collected from various potential predatory animal species in the vicinity of tomato crops, both in greenhouses and indoors. As such, researchers collected samples from barn swallows, pipistrelle bats, common swifts, house martins, Iberian lizards, long-tailed lizards, and common geckos.
The results of this groundbreaking study conclude that bats are the most effective predators of Tuta absoluta, closely followed by barn swallows, swifts, and reptiles. "Surprisingly, all bat colonies investigated were shown to feed on the pest, even those located several kilometers away from the crop fields."
In contrast, some domesticated species introduced into greenhouses to control Tuta absoluta have shown little effectiveness. Chickens did not show a large appetite that would help control the infestation. Partridges and quails showed predatory levels similar to lizards.
"This study opens new perspectives in the sustainable management of Tuta absoluta and provides valuable information to AlmerÃa producers. It highlights the importance of preserving and promoting the presence of natural predators in agricultural environments."
Source: diariodealmeria.es
