Tuber-borer
Guides
Symmetrischema tangolias
South American potato tuber moth, Andean potato tuber moth, tomato stemborer
Symmetrischema tangolias is a gelechiid moth native to the Andean region of South America that has become a globally significant agricultural pest. The species infests solanaceous crops, particularly potatoes and tomatoes, with larvae burrowing into stems, leaves, petioles, and tubers. It has established invasive populations in North America, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, and Chile. The species is adapted to cooler temperatures than the related potato tuber moth Phthorimaea operculella, with optimal development occurring between 14–17°C.