Bactrocera invadens: Picture taken by Bob Copeland
Bactrocera invadens: Picture taken by Bob Copeland
Identity: Bactrocera invadens
Common names: Asian fruit fly, Mouche des fruits, Tephritid fruit fly
Taxonomic position: Diptera: Tephritidae: Daccinae
Significance
The newly desribed species of Tephritidae, Bactrocera invadens is a new pest of economical importance belonging to Tephritidae family. It originated from Sri Lanka and is now invading Africa causing severe damage to fruit and vegetable crops..
Since detected in Mozambique in 2003, B. invadens' distribution in Africa has bee reported in Eastern and Western countries along Equator and as far North as Mali and recently as far South as Namibia and Mozambique
The ecology and biology of this species indicate that it is a highly invasive and polyphagous species with high reproductive potential and all year-round host availability in continous presence in certain regions.
Issues of major concern are the increase in trade and tourism, as this also increases the risk of infested fruit to be carried into South Africa through ports of entry, that is, land border posts, sea ports as well as international airports. It is an offence to import plants and plant materials without authorization into South Africa. To import plant products that are known to be capable of harboring B. invadens, an import permit with import conditions needs to be obtained. The import permit is issued prior to the actual importation.
Due to the recent detection of Bactrocera invadens in Mozambique the NPPO of South Africa has decided to develop a program that would intensify surveillance in the areas and routes closer to the Mozambican borders. Early detection is the best means to achieve speedy and cost effective eradication.