Tuta absoluta in Albania

Sept. 28, 2009 - PRLog -- Reports received today have confirmed the presence on Tuta absoluta in Albania for the first time.

The infestation seems to have started in the Fieri region in open field Tomota end of July this year although it has moved since to greenhouse in the area as well. Tuta absoluta was also reported in costal regions of Vlora and Durres as well.   Sever damage appeared in a limited number of farms although the full extend of the outbreak is still unclear.  Photos of leaf and fruit damage (slides 83-87) are available in the photo Gallery of www.Tutaabsoluta.com .  For further details on the use of pheromone monitoring system for the early detection of Tuta absoluta is available on www.russellipm-agriculture.com .

Tuta absoluta is a serious pest threatens the entire tomato production in the Mediterranean and causing damage reaches up to 100%. It first appeared in South America and reached Spain in 2006. Its rapid advance eastward is cause of serious concern.