First report of Tuta absoluta in the United Arab Emirates
The presence of Tuta absoluta (EPPO A2 List – Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) has recently been detected in the United Arab Emirates. The identity of the pest was confirmed by the British Natural History Museum. In July 2012, larvae of T. absoluta were found attacking leaves and fruit of tomato and aubergine (Solanum lycopersicum, S. melongena) grown in greenhouses. This is the first time that T. absoluta is reported from the United Arab Emirates.
The situation of Tuta absoluta in the United Arab Emirates can be described as follows: Present, first found in 2012 in glasshouse tomato and aubergine crops.
Sources
Personal communication with Dr Sami Abdulrahaman Elawad, Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, United Arab Emirates (2013-04).