Seasonal population changes and damage assessment of tomato leafminer [Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)] in tomato and potato fields in İzmir

Authors : Bahar Çaylak, Hüseyin Başpınar
Pages : 69-77
Doi:10.16955/bitkorb.1432757
View : 47 | Download : 146
Publication Date : 2026-01-01
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :The study investigated the population dynamics and damage caused by Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) in tomato as well as both early and late-season potato crops in Tire and Ödemiş districts of İzmir, Türkiye, during 2019-2020. Weekly samplings were conducted to monitor T. absoluta population fluctuations. Delta-type pheromone traps were used to capture and count adult moths. To determine the percentage of infested plants and the severity of leaf damage, 100 plants in each field were examined weekly. In tomato fields, the rate of infested fruit was assessed by inspecting 500 fruits (five replicates of 100 fruits) per field. T. absoluta adults were captured in pheromone traps throughout the year, indicating continuous pest pressure. Adult populations increased with the onset of the growing season, coinciding with crop development. The infestation rate was 100% in tomatoes and late-crop potatoes, demonstrating the pest\\\'s significant impact. The infestation rate was lower in early-crop potatoes and reached 22%. The maximum leaf damage observed in tomatoes was 4.5 mines per compound leaf. Fruit infestation rates in tomato fields ranged from 19.4% to 24.4%, highlighting the serious threat posed by T. absoluta to tomato fruit production. Although an intensive spraying program is applied, the high damage rate on fruits can be considered an indicator that only chemicals are not enough to control the pest. For this reason, it should be considered a necessity to establish ‘Integrated Pest Control Programs’ that will also include ‘Cultural Measures’ and ‘Biological Control’ practices.
Keywords : domates, patates, Tuta absoluta, domates güvesi, İzmir

ORIGINAL ARTICLE URL