First Record of Liriomyza huidobrensis (Diptera: Agromyzidae) Damaging Leafy Vegetables in Highland Production Areas

Abstract

Serious foliar mining damage characterized by serpentine tunnels, chlorotic blotches, leaf curling, and premature senescence was observed in leafy vegetable crops cultivated in highland production areas, indicating infestation by agromyzid leafminers. Field surveys were conducted across major high-altitude vegetable-growing regions to determine the identity, distribution, and infestation levels of the associated pest. Infested leaf samples collected from spinach, lettuce, cabbage, and related leafy vegetables were examined, and larvae and pupae were reared under laboratory conditions to obtain adult specimens for taxonomic identification. Morphological characterization based on adult external features, wing venation, and male genital structures confirmed the presence of Liriomyza huidobrensis (Diptera: Agromyzidae). This represents the first record of this species causing damage to leafy vegetables in the surveyed highland production areas. Molecular confirmation was achieved through sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene, which showed high similarity with reference sequences of L. huidobrensis in international databases. Phylogenetic analysis clustered the obtained populations within the global L. huidobrensis lineage, indicating close genetic relatedness with invasive populations reported from other regions. High infestation levels were associated with warm periods and intensive cultivation practices that favored rapid population buildup. Larval feeding activity resulted in significant reduction of photosynthetic area, stunted plant growth, and decreased marketable yield. The detection of L. huidobrensis in highland vegetable systems highlights its expanding distribution and potential threat to protected and open-field vegetable production. Accurate identification using integrated morphological and molecular approaches is essential for early detection and implementation of effective management strategies.