Tanzania IPM Project 05: Managing spiraling whitefly Aleurodicus dispersus Russel by using an exotic parasitoid, Encarsia haitiensisis

Project duration: 3 years (2005 – 2008)

Purpose: To implement classical biological control of spiraling whitefly in Tanzania. Emphasis will be on release of Encarsia haitiensis and other effective natural enemies in areas where spiraling whitefly has invaded.

Background: Spiraling whitefly was observed for the first time in Unguja Island in late 2002. During the survey that was conducted in the Eastern Zone of Tanzania mainland in August 2004, the pest was found in Tanga Coast and Morogoro regions whereby twelve crops including banana, cassava, cashewnut and a number of vegetables and fruit crops were found infested. Since the pest can be spread through fruits and planting materials, it is likely that it has already infested other agro ecological zones. In this case the objective would be to conduct countrywide survey in order to determine the incidence, abundance and distribution of the pest and select suitable release sites for natural enemies.

Agro ecological zones and locations: Countrywide survey will be conducted in the Northern, Lake, Western, Central, Southern, Highlands and Southern zones. Releases and monitoring of H. haitiensis will be conducted in areas that will be found infested with spiraling whitefly.

Expected outputs: 1) Suitable release sites for E. haitiensis and other natural enemies are identified; 2) Incidence, abundance and distribution of spiraling whitefly is documented; 3) Indigenous natural enemies and host range of Spiraling whitefly recorded.

Potential impact and Beneficiates: 1) Reduced population densities and damage caused by spiraling whitefly; 2) Household food security enhanced; 3) Higher market value for fruits and vegetables; 4) Improved income through sales of vegetables, fruits and cash crops.

Partners: The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), International Center for Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE)

Development Investors: Ministry of Agriculture (Lookimg for a donor support)

Contact person/Principal Investigator: Beatrice Pallangyo biocontrol@africaonline.tz, Co-ordinator, National Biological Control Programme (NBCP), Tanzania