Characteristics of Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) That Are Resistant and Susceptible to Oriental Fruit Fly (Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel) Infestation

Abstract

The response of chili (Capsicum annuum L.) to oriental fruit fly infestation (Bactrocera dorsalis) is highly variable among varieties. The differences in the resistance level of chili to oriental fruit fly infestation are presumed to be determined by the characteristics of chili fruit. This study aims to evaluate the morphochemical characteristics of different resistance levels of chili fruits to oriental fruit fly infestation in field conditions. The field test was carried out at the research station of the Indonesian Vegetable Research Institute (IVEGRI), West Java, Indonesia. Six essential derivatives of C. annuum from IVEGRI, consisting of three resistant and three susceptible varieties, were established in a prior investigation. The test population included 132 plants, with 22 plants planted for each variety. The resistance parameters observed were oviposition incidence, yield loss, fitness index, and chili fruit characteristics (morphology, nutrition, volatile compounds). The results showed that there were morphological and chemical differences between the varieties resistant and susceptible to oriental fruit fly infestation. The morphological characteristics of the fruit (width, weight, and thickness of fruit flesh) and fruit shape at pedicel attachment had an impact on the resistance level of fruit flies. Meanwhile, volatile compounds, water content, carbohydrates, and fiber content were among the chemical features that influenced oriental fruit fly infestation.