Integrated evaluation of five non-chemical trapping strategies for the tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), under greenhouse conditions

Abstract The tomato leafminer Tuta absoluta is a major invasive pest threatening tomato production under protected cultivation. This study evaluated the effectiveness of five non-chemical trapping strategies (pheromone traps, golden and blue light traps, yellow sticky traps (AMARILLO), and black sticky traps) for monitoring T. absoluta populations and reducing infestation levels under greenhouse conditions in Palestine. Field experiments were conducted at five commercial greenhouse sites over two consecutive growing seasons (2024–2025) using a randomised complete block design. Adult moth captures (males, females, and total adults) were recorded weekly for 28 weeks, alongside weekly assessments of infestation on tomato leaves, stems, and fruits. Pheromone traps recorded the highest captures of male moths, while golden light traps attracted both males and females and outperformed other visual traps. Seasonal mean infestation on tomato leaves, stems, and fruits was significantly lower under pheromone and golden light trap treatments compared with blue and black sticky traps. Strong positive correlations were observed between weekly adult captures and infestation levels on tomato leaves and fruits ( r = 0.81–0.95, P < 0.001), whereas correlations with stem infestation were weak and non-significant. Minimum temperature showed a strong positive association with moth activity across all trap types. The results demonstrate that trap-based strategies, particularly the combined use of pheromone and golden light traps, provide reliable monitoring and contribute to reducing T. absoluta infestation under greenhouse conditions. These approaches offer an effective, environmentally sound component of integrated pest management programmes for protected tomato production.