First record of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) in Uganda

Abstract

AbstractAn invasive pest,Tuta absoluta(Meyrick) has been observed infesting tomatoSolanum lycopersicumL. (Solanales: Solanaceae) in Central Uganda. The affected farmer made the report, and upon visiting the farm, we observed tiny larvae, green to cream in colour with a black head feeding on tomato leaves, fruit, as well as tender stems. Also, we saw several tiny moths resting on screen house linings. Delta traps baited with TUA-Optima®(Russell IPM) were set in and around the affected farm. Dozens of moths were attracted and trapped on the sticky surface of the traps. The team tentatively identified the insect asT. absoluta. Scientists at the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) in Nairobi, Kenya identified the insect using morphological features and molecular techniques.