Adana's Kozan district launches beneficial insect release to curb citrus pests

District agricultural authorities in Kozan, Adana, have begun releasing parasitic insects to control the citrus mealybug in local orchards. The operation is part of the Biyotop Project, which aims to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, protect the natural balance, and meet European Union export standards that forbid pesticide residues.

The release took place on a 65‑67 dunam orange grove, where farmers were briefed on the biological control method. Producer Cengiz Selekoğlu noted that hotter weather has increased mealybug populations and that past reliance on chemicals conflicted with EU market requirements. Officials emphasized that the sustainable, pesticide‑free approach benefits both export opportunities and consumer health.