An overview of sustainable management strategies for <i>Tuta absoluta</i>
Kahsay Tadesse Mawcha, Grace Kinyanjui, Daniel Hagos Berhe, Athanase Hategekimana, Kajuga Joelle, Dennis Ndolo
Abstract
The invasive tomato leafminer, Tuta absolute, is one of the significant constraints to global tomato production. If not effectively controlled, it can cause yield losses of up to 100%. Tomato growers have relied heavily on routinely applying synthetic insecticides to mitigate T. absoluta infestations and damage. The indiscriminate application of synthetic pesticides is unsustainable and typically results in resistance, a resurgence of tomato pests, and other risks to human health and the environment. With the growing emphasis on sustainable agriculture, there is an urgent need to reduce overreliance on insecticides and adopt complementary pest management strategies. This paper explores practical and environmentally friendly pest management strategies and biotechnological advancements, including developing insect-resistant tomato cultivars and sterile insect techniques that can contribute to the sustainable control of T. absoluta.