MEDITERRANEAN FRUIT FLIES Meaning and
Definition
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Mediterranean Fruit Flies, scientifically known as Ceratitis capitata, are small but economically significant pests that belong to the family Tephritidae. These flies are widely distributed across the Mediterranean region but have also been introduced to several other areas around the world, including both tropical and subtropical climates. The Mediterranean Fruit Fly is known for its ability to infest and damage a wide range of fruit crops, causing severe economic losses in agricultural industries.
Adult Mediterranean Fruit Flies are typically about the size of a housefly, measuring around 4-7 mm in length. They have a yellowish-brown thorax, black and white patterning on their abdomen, and transparent wings with distinctive dark bands. Males are slightly smaller than females and possess a dark spot on their wings. The flies are highly reproductive, with females capable of laying hundreds of eggs in their lifetime.
The primary concern with Mediterranean Fruit Flies is their ability to damage fruits. Females lay their eggs in the flesh of ripening fruits, which then hatch into larvae or maggots that feed on the fruit and cause it to rot. This damages the fruit's market value and makes it unfit for consumption. As a result, affected fruit crops may suffer significant losses, impacting local and international trade.
To mitigate the impact of Mediterranean Fruit Fly infestations, various control measures are employed, including the use of baited traps, sterile insect technique, and the application of insecticides. Quarantine measures are also enforced to prevent the spread of these pests across different regions.
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