New Records of Eulophid Parasitoids (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) Attacking Tuta absoluta in Greenhouse Tomato

Abstract

The invasive leafminer Tuta absoluta has emerged as one of the most destructive pests of Tomato in greenhouse and open-field production systems worldwide, causing severe yield and quality losses. The present study reports new records of Eulophidae parasitoids associated with T. absoluta infestations in greenhouse tomato cultivation and evaluates their potential role in natural biological control. Surveys were conducted in commercial greenhouse units, where infested tomato plants exhibiting characteristic leaf mines, larval galleries, and foliar necrosis were collected. Larvae and pupae of T. absoluta were reared under laboratory conditions to facilitate parasitoid emergence. Emerged parasitoids were preserved, mounted, and identified using standard taxonomic keys and morphological characteristics. The study documented the occurrence of several eulophid parasitoid species not previously recorded from the surveyed regions, indicating an expanded distribution of these natural enemies in protected cultivation systems. Parasitism rates varied among greenhouse locations, reflecting differences in pest pressure, microclimatic conditions, and crop management practices. Observations revealed that parasitoids significantly reduced larval survival and pupation success of T. absoluta, suggesting their important contribution to suppressing pest populations under natural conditions. The findings highlight the ecological significance of eulophid parasitoids in greenhouse tomato ecosystems and emphasize their potential integration into biological control-based pest management strategies. Conservation of these parasitoids through reduced pesticide use and habitat management may enhance their effectiveness and provide a sustainable alternative to chemical control. This study contributes new distributional records and strengthens the understanding of host–parasitoid interactions involving T. absoluta in protected tomato cultivation systems.