Identifying and Controlling Tuta Absoluta in Tomatoes

What is Tuta Absoluta?

A small moth whose larvae mine inside tomato leaves, stems and fruit. It is now present in nearly all tomato-growing areas of Tanzania and can cause 80–100% loss if uncontrolled.

Signs of Attack

• White winding mines/galleries inside leaves.
• Leaves drying up with a scorched appearance.
• Small holes in fruit, often under the calyx.
• Dark frass (larval droppings) on affected parts.

Integrated Control Plan

Prevention

• Use clean seedlings from an uninfested nursery.
• Remove and burn affected leaves/fruit — never leave them in the field.
• Remove solanaceous weeds (e.g. black nightshade) that host the pest.
• After harvest, uproot and destroy all tomato residues.

Traps

Install pheromone traps (2–4 per acre) to monitor and mass-trap male moths. Light-over-water traps at night also help on larger farms.

Pesticides

Use products registered for Tuta absoluta and rotate chemical groups every cycle — this pest develops resistance very quickly. Spray in the evening, targeting the underside of leaves. Follow label rates and pre-harvest intervals.

Important: Bring a sample or photos to the shop — we will confirm the pest and give you the right currently-available product plus a rotation plan.