Managing biotic interactions for plant protection : the case of the invasive Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) on tomato crop

Since its recent introduction in the Mediterranean Region, the tomato leaf miner, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) has become widespread and an important pest throughout the region and beyond. This study presents key results from empirical research, carried out in greenhouse and open field conditions to monitor fluctuations in pest populations and to test the effectiveness of different plant protection strategies aimed at reducing pressure from insect pests of tomato and in particular from the invasive T. absoluta.peer-reviewe