Red spider mites are causing extensive crop damage in northwestern Libya, attributed to climate change leading to arid conditions. Farmers report severe infestations, with experts urging for integrated pest management strategies to mitigate the threat. The pests, which thrive in high temperatures, have rapidly spread across North Africa since their introduction in the mid-20th century, further complicating agricultural sustainability efforts in the region.
The alarming rise of red spider mites in northwestern Libya poses significant threats to agriculture, particularly in areas like the Wadi Al-Hai agricultural development project. These minute pests, which measure less than half a millimeter, have wreaked havoc on various crops by feeding on the sap, leading to severe damage to fruit and vegetable plants. Agricultural experts attribute the increased severity of these infestations to drastic climate changes, which have led to arid conditions conducive to the mites’ proliferation. Fathi Al-Tahir, a plant protection specialist, articulated the concern shared amongst farmers: “The pest was not a big problem in the past … but it has worsened in recent years and has become unprecedentedly brutal, due to climate changes that have clearly affected Libya.” This statement reflects the growing challenges faced by local agriculturalists amid increasingly unfavorable environmental conditions. The Wadi Al-Hai project, spanning 12,000 hectares, primarily cultivates fruit trees and vegetables, serving as a critical agricultural hub. However, the coordinator of the agriculture sector in Garyan municipality, Ashour Suwaisi, reported that infestations have spread beyond village confines, affecting multiple cities. The red spider mite has a notorious ability to reproduce rapidly under high temperatures, an adaptation that has turned it into one of North Africa’s most destructive agricultural pests. Historically entering the region through imported seedlings, their prevalence has since expanded to neighboring countries like Morocco and Egypt. Jamal Breim, a local farmer, noted, “The pest first appeared on my farm in 2017, infecting 1,400 fig trees and 1,200 pomegranate trees at an unprecedented speed,” emphasizing the ongoing struggle to contain the damage despite various agricultural interventions. As climate conditions have shifted, Suwaisi provided insight into the perfect conditions for the mites’ survival. He indicated that rainfall in Wadi Al-Hai has dramatically decreased from 270 mm to just 50 mm in recent years, compounded by soaring temperatures and increasing frequency of dust storms. These environmental changes have effectively shortened the life cycle of the mites, resulting in quicker reproduction rates. Al-Tahir cautioned against relying on non-specific pesticides as a control measure, warning that misuse could lead to resistance among pest populations. Additionally, he noted the reliance on acaricides across North Africa, which has led to further complications. Rachid Boulmatat of ICARDA suggested, “ICARDA proposes strengthening quarantine systems and farmer training policies, as well as adopting integrated control strategies and establishing systems for early detection of the pest,” emphasizing preventive measures over reactive ones. According to Mohamed Amrani from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, the importance of monitoring and laboratory testing cannot be overstated, indicating a comprehensive approach to managing infestations is essential. The economic impact of red spider mite infestations is profound, with Abdul Majeed Al-Baghdadi from Libya’s National Center for Prevention and Agricultural Quarantine noting the pest’s extended reach throughout the country. A coordinated response is necessary, contingent upon available resources and improved security conditions for effective pest control initiatives.
The article discusses the growing infestation of red spider mites in Libya, closely tied to the impact of climate change on agriculture. Red spider mites are known for their rapid reproduction in arid conditions, making them particularly destructive in North Africa. This region has experienced significant environmental shifts, including reduced rainfall and higher temperatures, which have exacerbated these infestations. The article highlights the concerns of local farmers and agricultural specialists, noting the economic ramifications of these pests on crop production. It also discusses potential measures being considered to combat the increasing pest problem.
The increase in red spider mite infestations in Libya exemplifies the consequences of climate change on agriculture. With their rapid reproduction and ability to thrive in arid conditions, these pests pose a severe threat to crops, resulting in substantial economic losses. Farmers and specialists are calling for immediate and effective strategies, including better pest management techniques and government support, to counteract the growing challenges posed by these pests as the climate continues to change.
Original Source: phys.org
