Fruit fly

Ceratitis capitata

Ceratitis capitata is commonly known as the fruit fly or the Mediterranean fly. It is a polyphagous, invasive species of fly. These flies reproduce rapidly, adapt easily to different temperatures, and feeds on a variety of hosts. This makes it an especially damaging pest. It causes significant damage and economic crop loss.It is present on all continents of the planet. In Oceania, there are records of its presence dating back to the end of the 19th century: It appeared in New South Wales, Australia in 1898. Ceratitis capitata is one of eight species in the subgenus Ceratitus s.s. Adult individuals can be identified by its thorax and wings. Males have two orbital bristles and their apex is black and diamond-shaped. Mediterranean flies can damage up to 100% of a crop. Researchers estimate that this fruit fly preys on around 370 host plants around the world. Fruit flies prey on peaches and citrus by piercing through the skin (epicarp) of the fruit for oviposition. The larvae then consume the pulp (mesocarp) and microorganisms enter through the opening in the skin causing the fruit to rot. In Central America, fruit flies attack coffee crops causing the berries to ripen prematurely and fall to the ground. This reduces the quality of the coffee product. These two examples reflect the detrimental effect on crops that fruit flies have. Fruit flies can decrease the quality of a crop’s product. Often attempts to control fruit flies also increase expenses needed to protect the crop. A physical barrier can be applied before fruit is attacked. It is also important to remove fallen fruit or leftovers immediately after harvesting. This helps to prevent potential breeding sites of the pest. These removed fruits should be spread in the sun far from fruit growing areas or even buried at least half a meter below into soil. This kills immature stages of the Ceratitis capitata.