A new insect pest, Lasioptera sp. (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), on tomato and cucumber crops in glasshouses in Greece

Abstract

Previously unrecorded damage to tomato and cucumber crops grown in glasshouses in Greece is described and attributed to an unidentified species of Lasioptera (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae). Larvae develop in stems, and resulting necrosis induces wilting, stem breakages and reduction of fruit production. Methods of cultural and chemical control are suggested, and the need for further research to establish the identity of the pest and its probable origin is emphasized.