Population Fluctuations of Bactrocera Species (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Guava and Mango Orchards at Different Climatic Conditions of Sindh

Abstract

Two Bactrocera spp. of fruit fly (Bactrocera zonata and Bactrocera dorsalis) (Diptera: Tephritidae) associated with mango and guava fruits were studied during (January, 2019 to December, 2019) to determine the population dynamics of these notorious pests in different climatic zones of Sindh Province. Steiner type (Tando Jam) traps baited with methyl eugenol and 5% pesticide were incorporated in the guava and mango orchards of Hyderabad and Larkana. Fruit flies were trapped in the field throughout the year. The results revealed the distinct patterns of population dynamics at both climatic zones. The population density was greater for B. zonata as compared B. dorsalis in guava and mango orchards of both climatic zones. Peak population of Both Bactrocera spp. were observed in the August and June at guava and mango orchards of Sindh. The maximum number of B. zonata (989.40±75.24, 943.60±70.36) followed by B. dorsalis (708.70±21.80, 389.20±16.58) respectively were observed in off-seasoned guava at Hyderabad and Larkana. Whereas, higher population of B. zonata followed by B. dorsalis (623.50±14.76, 588.80±20.62 and 440.90±24.59, 400.40±11.86) respectively were inspected from seasoned mango orchards of both climatic regions. Minimum population of both fruit flies were obtained in January from guava and mango orchards of different climatic zones. The fruit flies density were affected by temperature and relative humidity. However, the stronger connection of population increase with matured fruits were exhibited. The present efforts would be supportive to eliminate Bactrocera species from different orchard agro-ecosystem of Sindh by using MAT in integration of other eco-friendly management techniques for fruit flies.