By Amr FathallaTiny but destructive red mites which thrive in arid conditions have led to huge crop losses in northwestern Libya and threaten to wreak havoc across the wider region. The red spider mites, typically measuring less than half a millimetre, feed on a wide range of plants, sucking the sap and causing leaves and fruits to dry up and fall off. Optimal climateAccording to Suwaisi, climate conditions have accelerated the spread of the pest, especially in the last two years. He said the red spider mite had become a major pest affecting fruit trees, vegetables, and ornamental plants across North Africa. The losses caused by red spider mites are undoubtedly huge, according to Abdul Majeed Al-Baghdadi, head of the management committee of Libya’s National Center for Prevention and Agricultural Quarantine, Tripoli branch.

Source: Libya Today October 21, 2024 05:12 UTC