The red spider mite infestation in Libya, exacerbated by climate change, has led to severe agricultural losses across the region. Farmers report significant damage to fruit and vegetable crops, with the pest thriving in reduced rainfall and heightened temperatures. Experts warn of pesticide resistance and call for improved management strategies to address this growing crisis.
In Libya, the recent proliferation of red spider mites, minute yet highly destructive pests, has garnered significant attention due to their devastating impact on agriculture. This phenomenon, particularly pronounced in the northwestern region of the country, has led to severe crop losses as these mites feed on a diverse range of plants, resulting in wilting leaves and dropped fruits. Farmers participating in the Wadi Al-Hai agricultural development project report that many fruit and vegetable trees have been obliterated by these infestations this year. Fathi Al-Tahir, a plant protection expert from Libya’s Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, noted the increasing severity of these infestations, attributing the escalation to climate changes impacting the country. The Wadi Al-Hai project spans 12,000 hectares, encompassing over 400 farms primarily cultivating figs, pomegranates, and grapes. Ashour Suwaisi, who coordinates the agricultural sector in Garyan municipality, confirmed that most trees in his vicinity are infected, with the problem expanding to additional cities. Red spider mites, known scientifically as two-spotted mites, are capable of multiplying rapidly in warm climates and adapting to different environmental conditions, thereby becoming one of the leading agricultural pests in North Africa. Their presence in the region dates back to the mid-20th century, introduced through imported seedlings from Europe and Asia. Jamal Breim, a farmer with an affected orchard, recounted the alarming emergence of the pests in 2017, which quickly devastated large numbers of his fig and pomegranate trees. His attempts at utilizing pesticides to combat the infestation have proven ineffective due to subpar pesticide quality; Breim expresses disappointment in both the government and international agencies for neglecting farmers facing this escalating crisis. Climate conditions—specifically decreased rainfall and elevated temperatures—have fostered optimal breeding environments for the mites, with significant declines in annual precipitation recorded in Wadi Al-Hai. Suwaisi emphasized that the drought conditions are particularly conducive to the pests, as they thrive in such environments. Moreover, Al-Tahir noted the detrimental effects of rising temperatures, which hasten the life cycle of red spider mites, allowing them to mature exponentially faster. The predominant reliance on non-targeted pesticides has also raised concerns about pesticide resistance among these mites. According to Rachid Boulmatat from the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), many farmers across North Africa are facing increased resistance to commonly used acaricides. To combat these challenges, Boulmatat advocates for enhanced quarantine measures, educational programs for farmers, and the establishment of integrated pest management practices. Mohamed Amrani, representing the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, underscored the paramount need for thorough monitoring and evaluation of pesticides utilized in agriculture. As the repercussions of red spider mite infestations continue to escalate, Abdul Majeed Al-Baghdadi, the head of Libya’s agricultural quarantine center, highlighted the significant spread of these pests across the nation, leading to calls for a focused campaign against them, contingent upon stable security and adequate funding. This crisis in Libya demonstrates not only the immediate agricultural threats posed by the red spider mite but also reflects broader implications of climate change on pest dynamics throughout North Africa.
The article highlights the alarming rise of red spider mite infestations in Libya, exacerbated by climate change. These pests, which thrive in dry conditions, have devastated many agricultural areas, particularly affecting crop yields. It emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive pest management strategies and the challenges faced by farmers in combating these pests effectively due to inadequate resources and governmental support. The piece brings forth the broader implications of changing climate conditions on agricultural pests and the need for agricultural resilience in North Africa.
In conclusion, the surge of red spider mites in Libya represents a significant agricultural challenge linked to climate change. With the pests destroying vital crops and threatening food security, there is an urgent need for coordinated responses from the government, international organizations, and local farmers. The necessity for effective pesticide management and improved agricultural practices becomes increasingly important to mitigate the impact of climate-induced infestations.
Original Source: www.eurasiareview.com
