Bilousova T. Phytosanitary risks of the spread, reproduction, and control of the South American tomato moth Tuta absoluta Meyr. in the Steppe of Ukraine

In the years 2019-2022, the structure and dynamics of the South American tomato moth (Tuta absoluta Meyr.) population were studied on tomatoes and black nightshade (Solanum nigrum L). The climate in the research region experiences a cool winter and a moderately warm spring and summer. Based on the research findings aimed at reducing the tomato moth population and minimizing crop losses, a balanced approach involving the justified use of chemical and biological measures, along with the cultivation of relatively resistant tomato varieties, is recommended. The application of biological insecticides, which do not negatively impact beneficial insect species and natural enemies of the tomato moth, is designed for a balanced reduction in population during the early stages of reproduction. The phenology and biology of the South American tomato moth are taken into account both before and after the implementation of control measures. It has been established that in the first generation, adult moths develop from mid-May to September at a cumulative temperature sum (CT) of 160° C. Egg-laying occurs at a CT of 162° C, and caterpillars emerge at temperatures ranging from 169-171° C. The pupal stage lasts at mean daily temperatures of +19.2 to +20.5° C, corresponding to an effective temperature sum of 204° C. In the second generation, adult moths develop in early June at a CT of 204° C. Egg-laying takes place from June 10th to the end of the month, corresponding to an effective temperature sum of 206° C, and caterpillars appear at 219° C, under high relative humidity conditions (GTI – 1.2). The development of the third generation is characterized by high mean daily air temperatures and low precipitation levels. Adult moths in July were noted at effective temperature sums ranging from 264° C to 266° C. Egg-laying was observed 7-10 days after the onset of adult moth flight, corresponding to a CT of 206–266° C, which is practical for application in modern pest control measures. Population monitoring of the tomato moth should be systematic and regular, utilizing pheromone traps and visual inspection of plants according to their phenology. This allows for the timely detection of infestations in tomatoes and the control of pest numbers throughout the season. To prevent the penetration of this pest into free zones of Ukraine, it is possible by adhering to a complex of phytosanitary measures, controlling the pest in open and closed ground conditions. It is important to detect the pest promptly using modern monitoring methods with the use of pheromone traps. The application of effective protection measures has been justified to preserve the crop and enhance the quality of tomatoes. The chemical protection method has reduced the pest population by 82-96 % and prevented damage from spreading in various regions. Economic analysis has confirmed the importance of effective integrated methods for controlling the phytophagous pest according to tomato chemical protection standards, drawing on international research experience and new opportunities for quarantine protection measures.