Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Moroccan Citrus orchards: Chemical and Sustainable Control Methods and Priorities for Future Research

Abstract

The Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata) infects fruits from over 300 plant species, causing substantial economic losses amounting to millions of dollars annually. Though it has its origin in the Mediterranean basin, it has spread to Asia, Europe, Central and South America, Africa, Australia, etc. Its control in Morocco has been principally based on chemical sprays. The review aims to provide information on control methods of Ceratitis capitata, mainly in citrus orchards in Morocco. Relevant literature was sourced from different search engines: Google scholar, science direct, PubMed, etc. The article highlighted the principal findings of previous studies, discussed current control methods, and proposed new innovative research and sustainable approaches to control medflies. Setting up an integrated long-term ecological monitoring program in Morocco and different African countries and incorporating new technologies into monitoring programs are urgently needed to fight this devastating pest. These programs must consider the climate conditions, phenology, infestation rates, and propagation speed of pests. Other methods include new organic pests and trapping, sterile insect technique (SIT), parasitoid enemies such as Diachasmimorpha longicaudata, pathogens like Beauveria bassiana, and introducing a self-limiting genetic method. These fundamental elements are suggested to control pests, respect the environment and public health.