Ankara launches 'Smart Insect' kits to combat tomato leafminer pest

Ankara Metropolitan Municipality has begun a free pilot programme distributing "Smart Insect" kits for biological control of the tomato leafminer (tuta absoluta). The kits were first delivered to farms in the districts of Ayaş, Güdül and Beypazarı, covering 147 decares and assisting 47 producers. The native insects are packaged, injected and become active within two to three days, providing about ten days of protection against the pest, which has no effective chemical treatment. Municipal officials, including Ahmet Mekin Tüzün and Niyazi Zobu, say the project aims to lower production costs, reduce pesticide use and improve the healthiness of tomatoes. Researchers such as Şahin Tatlı highlighted the method’s sustainability, noting its benefits for human health, the environment and product value.