First record of Tuta absoluta in Italy
In Italy, the presence of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae - EPPO A1 List) was first noted in spring 2008 in the province of Cosenza (Calabria), on glasshouse tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum). In autumn 2008, T. absoluta was reported from Sardegna, in field and glasshouse tomatoes, and is now considered as widespread. In November 2008, an outbreak was reported in Campania (Portici, Napoli) in an experimental tomato glasshouse. In December 2008, T. absoluta was discovered in several tomato glasshouses in the southern part of Sicilia (Caltanissetta, Ragusa) and preliminary surveys confirmed that the pest has a high potential for natural spread and could also infest aubergine (Solanum melongena). Research is being initiated on control strategies.
The situation of Tuta absoluta in Italy can be described as follows: Present, first found in 2008, reported from Calabria, Campania, Sardegna and Sicilia.
Sources
Regional Plant Protection Services of Campania, Sardegna, Sicilia (IT), 2009-02.
Tropea Garzia G, Siscaro G, Colombo A, Campo G (2009) Rinvenuta in Sicilia Tuta absoluta. L’Informatore Agrario no. 4, p 71.
Viggiani G, Filella F, Delrio G, Ramassini W, Foxi C (2009) Tuta absoluta, nuovo lepidottero segnalato anche in Italia. L’Informatore Agrario no. 2, 66-67.