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Devastation caused by insect infestation in Tunisia’s important prickly pear industry | Global News


A destructive insect is causing significant damage to Tunisia’s prickly pear industry, a crucial source of revenue for the country’s agriculture sector. The cochineal insect, discovered in Tunisia in 2021, is threatening the harvest of prickly pears and has already caused extensive damage to plantations. With prickly pears covering approximately 12% of Tunisia’s agricultural land, the economic impact of this insect is severe as it poses a threat to the livelihoods of many farmers and particularly women who rely on the fruit for income.

Efforts are being made by the Tunisian government and international organizations to address this issue. The Food and Agriculture Organization has initiated a $500,000 emergency project to introduce biological control methods, such as using ladybugs as predators of the insect. The Tunisian Ministry of Agriculture is also promoting sustainable control measures, including changes in agricultural practices, pruning, and cleaning in affected areas to combat the spread of the insect.

Despite these efforts, farmers like Bassem Sahnoun are facing challenges in protecting their healthy prickly pear trees from the destructive effects of the insect. The crisis is ongoing, and if left unchecked, it could continue to devastate prickly pear trees. The situation is dire for farmers like Selma Jridi, who feel powerless against this threat to their livelihood.

As the Tunisian agriculture sector grapples with this crisis, it is crucial to find sustainable solutions to mitigate the impact of the cochineal insect and protect the country’s prickly pear industry. The fate of thousands of farmers and the economic stability of Tunisia’s agriculture sector depend on finding effective solutions to combat this destructive insect.

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Photo credit www.hindustantimes.com

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