Ulsan Agricultural Technology Center Makes All-Out Efforts to Minimize Tomato Pinworm Damage to Farms

Strengthening On-Site Monitoring Including Emergency Supply of Control Materials

The Ulsan Agricultural Technology Center is making every effort to prevent damage to farms and curb the spread of the quarantine pest, the tomato pinworm.

Quarantine pests refer to pests and diseases that have the potential to cause significant economic damage. These include those that are not present in the country, or those that are found only in certain regions but are subject to monitoring programs or other control measures.

Damage appearance of the entire plant.

The tomato pinworm has been reported in 81 cities and counties across 17 provinces nationwide. In Ulsan, it was first discovered on May 21, 2025, at a tomato greenhouse farm in Hwajeong-ri, Seosaeng-myeon, Ulju-gun.

Since May 2024, Ulsan City has been conducting continuous monitoring, and in April 2025, provided monitoring and control supplies to areas densely populated with tomato farms.

After the initial discovery, to prevent further spread and minimize damage, emergency control supplies were provided to 30 farms larger than 200 square meters, and on-site monitoring was intensified.

Depending on the situation, the city plans to provide additional control supplies and implement joint pest control measures in both farmland and surrounding non-farmland areas.

The tomato pinworm is an invasive pest that can overwinter throughout South Korea. In particular, it can survive year-round in greenhouse cultivation, making continuous control essential. In addition, a single female can lay up to 260 eggs at a time, resulting in high reproductive capacity. The larvae feed on the inside of leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits without discrimination, causing widespread damage.

To prevent and respond to farm damage, the following measures are recommended: ▲ For pre-infestation management, install insect screens (1.6mm or smaller) on ventilation windows and entrances, and remove potential host weeds (such as Solanum nigrum and Solanum americanum) around the cultivation area. Also, install pheromone traps to continuously monitor for pest entry.

Fruit damage and larvae.

▲ In case of infestation, apply registered pesticides for the pinworm, entomopathogenic microorganisms for larval control, and plant-based organic materials (such as BT formulations and Sophora flavescens extract). Install 100 mating disruption devices per 1,000 square meters to suppress reproduction, and use light traps to capture and remove adult moths.

▲ After the cultivation period, thoroughly remove plant residues, and before the next planting season, disinfect the soil using solarization or soil insecticides.

For more information, please contact the Ulsan Agricultural Technology Center.

An official from the Agricultural Technology Center stated, "If the tomato pinworm is detected early and responded to promptly, it is possible to minimize damage and prevent its spread. We ask for the active cooperation of related organizations and farmers."