Occurrence and Damage Levels of Thaumatotibia leucotreta on Capsicum in Selected Counties in Lower Eastern Kenya

The false codling moth (FCM), Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick), is believed to have originated from Ethiopia and sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, this pest has extensively spread found in most parts of Africa, with records approximately 40 countries over 100 host plant species. Despite being the leading cause interceptions Capsicum cut flowers exported by Kenya European Union, information on abundance damage levels inflicted capsicum limited. objective study was assess T. selected counties Lower Eastern (Kitui, Machakos, Makueni counties). Higher larval density per farm recorded Kitui County compared other counties. In farms only (not intercropped crops), mean number FCM larvae relatively higher Kitui. Farming practices such as use uncertified seeds seedlings excessive pesticides may be major contributors high incidence County.