Tephritid fruit flies (family: Tephritidae) are among the most economically significant pests in horticulture, affecting over 400 commercial crops worldwide. Key genera of concern include Bactrocera, Ceratitis, Anastrepha, and Rhagoletis. Infestations lead to massive economic losses due to fruit damage, trade restrictions, and high pesticide use.
A table outlining the key regions, species, and main hosts is listed below:
| Region | Key Species | Main Hosts |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Asia | Bactrocera dorsalis, B. correcta, B. cucurbitae | Mango, guava, banana, papaya, tomato |
| Middle East | Dacus sp., B. zonata and Ceratitis capitata | Mango, guava, papaya, citrus |
| Africa | C. capitata, Bactrocera invadens, B. cucurbitae | Citrus, mango, coffee |
| North America | Anastrepha ludens, Rhagoletis pomonella | Citrus, apple, mango |
| Latin America | Anastrepha spp., C. capitata | Mango, guava, citrus |
| Europe | C. capitata | Citrus, stone fruits |
| Australia | Bactrocera tryoni, B. neohumeralis, C. capitata | Stone fruits, citrus, apples |
Bactrocera dorsalis (Oriental fruit fly): Fly Tract ME
Target crops: Mango, Guava, Papaya, Tomato, Banana & Custard apples
Bactrocera cucurbitae (Melon fly): Fly Tract CL
Target crops: All types of Vegetable cucurbits and Melon fruits
Cole crops are damaged by Plutella xylostella (Diamondback moth - DBM) particularly affecting brassica crops like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. Originally, pesticides were used to kill the moths but diamondbacks have developed resistance to many of the common chemicals. An early-stage control of DBM is developed using Kairomones formulation (Allu-De) which can attract the DBM thereby reducing the infestation at the early stage in the agricultural field.
Plutella xylostella (Diamondback Moth): Allu-De
Target crops: Cabbage, Cauliflower & Broccoli