Research Project: Bio-ecology of the false codling moth, Thaumatotibia leucotreta and its associated natural enemies on citrus in Kenya and Tanzania and implication for its management

Abdullah is an ARPPIS PhD Scholar supervised by Dr Samira Mohamed (icipe). Abdullah’s research interests include the insect biology, ecology and sustainable pest management. His PD research focuses on the false codling moth (FCM) Thaumatotibia leucotreta, one of the major constraints to citrus production. Information on the bio-ecology of FCM and natural enemies is crucial for sound and sustainable management of this pest. The research will establish the genetic diversity, distribution, host range, dynamics, and damage levels of T. leucotreta in Tanzania, catalogue natural enemies and determine their efficiency in suppressing T. leucotreta, and conduct life table studies and develop predictive phenology models for T. leucotreta.

Abdullah holds a BSc in Agriculture and a MSc in Crop Science from Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania.