Dr. Mohamed Youssef, a professor of biological control at the Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, has stated that the spread of the tomato pest, also known as "Tuta absoluta" or "tomato worm," in Egyptian tomato farms has been exaggerated. According to Youssef, the infestation rates are within the natural economic limits or below the critical economic threshold. He emphasized the importance of regular monitoring of the crop by the relevant authorities and the development of integrated control programs to prevent the spread of the pest.
The tomato pest, Tuta absoluta, is a significant threat to tomato crops in Egypt, particularly during the Nile Valley season. Youssef noted that environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity fluctuations, can contribute to increased infestation rates. However, he stressed that this does not necessarily mean that the pest has reached a level of economic damage. The expert also pointed out that the limited cultivation of tomatoes during this period may lead to a relative decline in production, which, combined with increased demand, may affect prices.
Dr. Youssef highlighted the efforts of the Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture and the agricultural cooperative associations in supporting farmers through national campaigns, extension services, and field schools to provide recommendations for controlling pests that affect vegetable crops, including the tomato pest. He also noted that the pest can infect other crops in the Solanaceae family, such as potatoes, eggplants, and peppers, as well as some weeds.
The main damage caused by the tomato pest occurs during the larval stage, as the larvae feed on different parts of the plant, creating tunnels in the leaves, stems, and growing tips. The pest can also infect fruits, leading to direct damage and secondary infections that may cause fruit rot. Dr. Youssef emphasized the importance of implementing integrated control programs that start with agricultural practices, such as removing infected plant residues and weeds, and following proper irrigation and drainage procedures.
Dr. Youssef recommended using biological control methods, including parasitoids, predators, and biopesticides, to control the tomato pest. In cases of severe infestation, he suggested using registered and recommended insecticides, while adhering to the specified safety period before harvesting the crop. He also pointed out that national agricultural projects, including those that expand greenhouse agriculture, have contributed to increasing production and improving the market supply of vegetables.
The expert stressed that expanding agricultural production and applying modern farming techniques are crucial for enhancing food security and improving the country's ability to cope with seasonal fluctuations in production and prices. He also noted that the Egyptian government has been working to support farmers and improve agricultural productivity through various initiatives and programs.
The issue of the tomato pest has significant implications for Egypt's agricultural sector, particularly in terms of food security and economic stability. As the country continues to grapple with the challenges posed by the pest, experts like Dr. Youssef are working to provide guidance and support to farmers and policymakers.
Key points
- Dr. Mohamed Youssef emphasizes the importance of integrated control programs to manage the tomato pest.
- Environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity fluctuations, can contribute to increased infestation rates.
- National agricultural projects have contributed to increasing production and improving the market supply of vegetables.
