The potential invasion risk and preventive measures against the tomato leafminer Tuta absoluta in China

Abstract

Abstract

The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta, a serious pest threatening the tomato industry in South America, Africa, Europe and Central-West Asia, now has recently invaded the neighboring countries of Northwest and Southwest China. With the increasing international trade in agriculture products, T. absoluta presents a potential threat to Chinese tomato and potato industry. In order to effectively prevent the introduction of T. absoluta and strengthen the alertness of plant quarantine staff and agricultural researchers against this pest in China, we evaluated its potential introduction pathway, host plant species and climate suitability, and also reviewed the monitoring measures being carried out in China. Finally, potential integrated pest management strategy for T. absoluta in China was proposed based on the management experience of T. absoluta in the origin and invaded countries. This will assist Chinese policy-makers to improve current surveillance, phytosanitary measures as well as future management strategies for T. absoluta.