The South American tomato moth has become a major headache for gardeners and farmers in the southern regions of Kazakhstan, leading to a disappointing season with a reduced harvest of flavourful greenhouse-grown tomatoes. The pest entered Kazakhstan seven years ago through Shymkent. It later spread to the Almaty region, Kyzylorda, Turkestan, and Zhambyl regions, damaging not only tomatoes but also aubergines, peppers, and potatoes.

Conventional insecticides prove ineffective as the moth hides inside fruits and leaves. Many farmers neglect proper treatment schedules, turning the once nutritious produce into a "toxic bomb." Effective measures include the use of pheromone traps, bio-preparations, and the burning of affected plants.

Scientists warn that without collaborative efforts from gardeners and farmers, the entire tomato harvest is at risk. The situation also threatens the market, as imports are not a sustainable solution due to the risk of contamination on local plantations.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com