Tomato leafminer
Common NameTomato leafminer
Scientific NamePhthorimaea absoluta
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey
HabitatAgricultural fields, greenhouses, areas with solanaceous crops
Geographic RangeNative to South America, now widespread globally (Europe, Africa, Asia)
Host Plantstomato, potato, eggplant, pepper, tobacco
Flight PeriodYear-round in suitable climates (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, larvae mine leaves, stems, and fruits, creating characteristic galleries. Pupation occurs in the soil or on the plant, leading to multiple generations annually.
Identification TipsLook for its small size (6-7mm wingspan), greyish-brown forewings with distinct dark mottling, and filiform antennae. Larval damage on tomato plants, characterized by leaf mines, is a key indicator.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled greyish-brown forewings, often featuring dark spots and streaks, and fringed hindwings. Its cryptic coloration provides camouflage.
