First record of Tuta absoluta in Cyprus
The NPPO of Cyprus recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae – EPPO A2 List) on its territory. During an intensive monitoring programme using pheromone traps, T. absoluta was detected in most glasshouse tomato producing areas in November 2009. It is believed that the pest entered Cyprus with imports of infested tomato fruits from other European countries but this could not be confirmed. Measures are taken by the Department of Agriculture to control T. absoluta (chemical treatments, use of biological control agents and appropriate cultural practices).
The situation of Tuta absoluta in Cyprus can be described as: Present, first found in 2009 in most glasshouse tomato producing areas, under official control.
Sources
NPPO of Cyprus, 2009-12.