Seasonality and host utilization of the invasive fruit fly, Bactrocera invadens (Dipt., Tephritidae) in central Tanzania.
Mwatawala M. W., Meyer M. de, Makundi R. H., Maerere A. P.
Author Affiliation: Department of Crop Science and Production, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania.
Journal of Applied Entomology 130 : 530-537
Abstract : The temporal occurrence of the invasive and economically important pest fruit fly, Bactrocera invadens was studied in three agro-ecological areas of Morogoro Region, central Tanzania, during 2004-2005. Weekly and monthly trappings were carried out with methyl eugenol, protein bait and synthetic food attractant. Bactrocera invadens was permanently present at low and mid-altitudes (380-520 m a.s.l.) with peak periods coinciding with the fruiting season of mango (Mangifera indica) and guava (Psidium guajava). At high altitude (1650 m a.s.l.) its incidence was only temporal and apparently the result of dispersal from lower altitudes after the mango fruiting season. Rearing results showed mango, loquat (Eriobotrya japonica), guava and grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi) to be the favoured commercial host fruits. Other Citrus species, cucurbits, papaya (Carica papaya) and avocado (Persea americana) were less favoured.