Measures to Control Fruit Fly in Cucurbits crop

Fruit flies, particularly the melon fly (Bactrocera cucurbitae) and the pumpkin fly (Bactrocera tryoni), are major pests of cucurbit crops, which include cucumbers, melons, pumpkins, squash, and gourds. These flies lay their eggs inside the developing fruits, where the hatching maggots feed on the flesh, rendering the fruit unmarketable and inedible. The adults emerge from the pupae after about a week. Fruit flies can be a nuisance in the home, but they are not harmful to humans. They can be controlled by keeping your kitchen clean and free of overripe fruit and vegetables. You can also use traps to catch them.

• Type of Infestation: Pest
• Common Name: Fruit Fly
• Causal Organism: Bactrocera cucurbitae
• Affected Parts Of the plant: Fruits

 Identification:

• Size: Most fruit flies are tiny, ranging from 2-3 mm in length.
• Body: Usually oval-shaped with a segmented abdomen.
• Color: Varies depending on the species, but commonly yellow-brown, brown, or black.
• Eyes: Large and prominent, often red but can also be brown or black.
• Wings: Transparent with distinct veins, typically held flat over the body when resting.

Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:

• Warm temperatures: Fruit flies are most active and develop faster in warm climates with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Cooler temperatures slow down their development and activity.
• High humidity: Moderate to high humidity levels (around 60-80%) favor egg laying and maggot survival. Dry conditions can hinder their development and increase egg mortality.

 Symptoms of Pest/Disease:

• Small puncture wounds on the fruit surface
• Oozing of sap or brown, resinous liquid from the wounds
• Distorted and malformed fruits
• Premature fruit drop
• Maggots visible inside the fruit

Measures to control Pests/Diseases:

Products	Technical Names	Dosages
MAL50	Malathion 50 % EC	250-300 ml per Acre
Chloro 50	Chlorpyriphos 50% EC	400 ml per acre
Docter 505	Chloropyriphos 50 % + cypermethrin 5 % EC	300 ml per acre