Farmers alerted as survey tracks Dubas palm pest

SUR, MARCH 8
Specialists from the Directorate-General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Sur have carried out field visits to several agricultural villages, including Wadi Bani Jaber and Wadi Al Manqal, to monitor the spread of the Dubas palm pest and assess its current generation for 2026.
The inspections focused on date palm trees across farms to identify developmental stages of the pest in preparation for targeted control measures during the upcoming agricultural cycle.
The initiative is part of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources’ regular programme to track pests that may impact crop productivity and the quality of date harvests.
Date palms remain one of Oman’s most significant crops, forming a cornerstone of rural livelihoods and traditional farming systems in many wilayats, including Sur.
During the visits, specialists examined fronds and other plant parts to detect signs of infestation, paying close attention to eggs, nymphs, adult insects, and sugary secretions, which can foster sooty mold and affect tree health.
Officials highlighted that early monitoring is crucial to limiting the spread of Dubas infestations. Identifying the dominant stage of the pest allows specialists to time interventions effectively, whether through agricultural practices, biological control, or approved chemical treatments.
The visits also included awareness guidance for farmers, stressing regular farm monitoring, proper palm management such as pruning and cleaning, and the early reporting of infestations to enable timely intervention by technical teams.
The annual Dubas palm pest programme involves field surveys, assessment of infestation levels, and mapping affected areas to guide targeted control campaigns. The ministry continues to enhance monitoring through staff training and modern pest assessment methods to safeguard Oman’s agricultural resources.
Authorities emphasised that cooperation between farmers and technical teams is essential, as the success of pest management relies on adherence to official guidelines and control schedules. The Dubas palm pest, which feeds on palm sap, can severely reduce productivity if not managed promptly.
Through these inspections, specialists aim to obtain an accurate assessment of the pest’s presence in Sur, enabling effective intervention plans and ensuring the sustained health and productivity of date palm trees, reinforcing the ministry’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development and food security in Oman.
The ministry also urged farmers to participate actively in community awareness programmes and workshops on pest management, which are regularly organised across the wilayat.
Such initiatives aim to equip growers with the latest techniques in integrated pest management, enabling them to safeguard their crops while minimising reliance on chemical treatments, ultimately promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices.