A destructive insect is causing havoc in Tunisia’s crucial prickly pear industry, posing a significant threat to the country’s agricultural sector and economy. The cochineal insect, which first appeared in the country in 2021, is sucking the sap from cactus pads, resulting in the yellowing and eventual death of the plants. This has raised concerns about the economic impact of the insect on Tunisia’s prickly pear production, which accounts for about 12% of the country’s agricultural land.
Farmers like Bassem Sahnoun are struggling to protect their prickly pear trees, which are a significant source of income for thousands, especially women involved in harvesting and selling the fruit. The Tunisian government and international organizations are taking steps to mitigate the impact of the insect, with initiatives such as introducing biological control methods like ladybugs as predators of the cochineal insect. The Ministry of Agriculture is also promoting sustainable control measures like changes in agricultural practices and cleaning production areas.
Despite efforts to combat the insect, farmers like Sahnoun are facing a daunting task if the crisis persists and continues to dry up prickly pear trees. The situation is further exacerbated by the belief of some farmers, like Selma Jridi, that the problem is out of their control and may be a result of divine judgment. As efforts continue to find solutions to the cochineal insect infestation, the future of Tunisia’s prickly pear industry remains uncertain.
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