Red spider mites have surged in Libya, particularly in the northwestern region, leading to severe crop losses due to their sap-sucking behavior. This upsurge is linked to climate change, diminishing rainfall, and rising temperatures, which have accelerated their reproduction. Farmers struggle with ineffective pesticides and a lack of support from authorities, urging the implementation of integrated pest management strategies to address this agricultural crisis.
In Libya, the red spider mite, a minuscule yet devastating pest thriving in dry conditions, has resulted in substantial crop losses, particularly within the agricultural sector of northwestern Libya. These mites, which measure less than half a millimeter, feed on the sap of myriad plants, leading to the drying and shedding of leaves and fruits. Farmers engaged in the Wadi Al-Hai agricultural development project have reported severe infestations this year, leading to the decimation of numerous fruit and vegetable trees. Fathi Al-Tahir, a plant protection specialist at the Libyan Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, articulated that the otherwise manageable pest situation has escalated in recent years, becoming exceptionally severe due to climate change, which has had a pronounced impact on the country. The Wadi Al-Hai project, which spans 12,000 hectares and hosts over 400 farms, primarily cultivates fruit trees and vegetables. In the surrounding region, the infestation has rapidly extended to other cities. Known scientifically as two-spotted mites, these pests exhibit rapid reproduction rates, particularly in higher temperatures, rendering them formidable opponents to agricultural stability in North Africa. Since their introduction to the region via seedlings from Europe and Asia in the mid-20th century, they have proliferated across countries including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Egypt. Local farmer Jamal Breim recounted the initial appearance of the pest on his land in 2017, wherein it quickly affected over 2,600 fruit trees. His attempts to mitigate the damage using available pesticides have met with limited success. Efforts by the government and international organizations to aid affected farmers have been disappointingly inadequate. Climate parameters, especially over the past two years, have fueled the mites’ advancement, with reduced annual rainfall and escalating temperatures contributing to their proliferation. Notably, the annual precipitation in Wadi Al-Hai has significantly diminished from 270 millimeters to merely 50 millimeters, coupled with increased instances of dust storms. Consequently, the life cycle of the red spider mite has been accelerated, which hastens the transition from egg to adult and enhances reproduction rates. Fathi Al-Tahir emphasized the consequences of utilizing non-specific pesticides, which may lead to the development of pesticide resistance among these pests. As many nations in North Africa rely heavily on acaricides—substances effective against mites—emerging resistance is becoming a concern. Rachid Boulmatat from ICARDA proposed measures such as bolstering quarantine systems and establishing early pest detection protocols, alongside recommendations for integrated pest management strategies. Mohamed Amrani from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization also noted potential issues with pesticide applications, advocating for rigorous monitoring and laboratory analyses to ensure pesticide validity. The ramifications of the red spider mite incursion are undeniably substantial, leading to widespread propagation across all Libyan regions. Abdul Majeed Al-Baghdadi, who heads Libya’s National Center for Prevention and Agricultural Quarantine, confirmed that the pest has ensnared areas from eastern and central Libya to the coastal regions and southern oases. Plans for a comprehensive response campaign hinge on available funding and stable security conditions in the region.
The article addresses the infestation of red spider mites in Libya, a situation exacerbated by climate change. It delves into the agricultural challenges faced by farmers as these pests flourish under dry conditions, resulting in significant crop loss. As local climatic conditions have altered, these mites have spread swiftly, prompting urgent calls for response and management strategies. The context encompasses agricultural practices, pest control measures, and the broader impacts of environmental changes on farming in Libya.
The increased prevalence of red spider mites in Libya, intensified by climate change and adverse environmental conditions, has led to devastating losses in the agriculture sector. Farmers face significant challenges in managing these pests, compounded by insufficient governmental and international support. There is an urgent need for improved pest management strategies and resources to mitigate the ongoing agricultural crisis.
Original Source: www.eurasiareview.com
