Effective trap density for mass trapping of fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) and Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) in mango

Abstract

Fruit flies are among the major pests of fleshy fruits which affect production throughout the world and represent the most economically important group of polyphagous Diptera. Use of male pheromone traps is a widely followed approach to manage fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) and Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) (Tephritidae: Diptera) in mango. Using effective trap density is critical for achieving adequate control of fruit flies. In this regard, an investigation was conducted to evaluate the trap densities for mass trapping of the mango fruit fly. Results revealed that the highest numbers (2710.33 fruit flies/trap/month) of fruit flies were trapped with density of 25 traps/ha, followed by 20 traps /ha (2247.90). While, the lowest numbers (885.89 fruit flies /trap/month) of fruit flies were trapped in 5 traps/ha. Based on the findings, use of 25 methyl eugenol traps per hectare is considered optimum to reduce fruit fly population in mango.