Rearing techniques for Dacus latifrons (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Abstract

Simple, low cost techniques and equipment were developed for large-scale production of Dacus latifrons. An artificial wheat diet was modified for use as a production diet by adding carrot powder (7.5% by vol), which significantly increased pupal yield and adult fecundity, and citric acid (0.35%), which controlled fungal contamination encountered during large-scale rearing. A new oviposition device, enclosable larval rearing trays, a larval collection cabinet and specialised pupal holding procedures are described. During a 1-year period, 7 611 040 D. latifrons pupae were produced from 25 714 344 fertile eggs in less than 77 msuperscript 2 of space in 120 working h/week to support commodity treatment, attractant screening and sterile insect release method research programmes