First record of Tuta absoluta in Haiti

From March to June 2018, we performed an insect survey in four tomato fields located in the South Department of Haiti. Although crop rotations and insecticide applications are regularly performed on these fields, insect pests repeatedly cause damage to plants and fruits. Leafminer larvae and adults were captured and further identified as Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae). This is the first record of this important tomato pest in Haiti. Early conversations with growers suggest that the insect is experiencing a year of unprecedented outbreaks. We expect growers to increase the frequency and doses of insecticide treatments, accelerating the development of insecticide resistant populations. The presence of T. absoluta in Haiti will probably result in a fast expansion to the neighbouring Dominican Republic, and could serve as additional reservoir for dissemination to American countries.