The Western Cape is dominated by two types of fruit fly, the Mediterranean fruit fly and the Natal fruit fly, which predominates in Stellenbosch. This is according to research done by Dr Pia Addison, Aruna Manrakhan and Nonto Mfeka from the Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology at the University of Stellenbosch’s Faculty of Agriscience.
According to Addison, fruit left unpicked or dropped on the ground in the orchard are the major sources of infestation. These researchers are currently working on a database identifying the fruit which are the flies’ preferred hosts. The effects of competition between the Natal and Mediterranean flies are also being monitored. Dr Addison points out that this will help refine management strategies in the future.
Preliminary results indicate that the Mediterranean fly is still more common in the Western Cape, but the Natal fly has been expanding its territory since the 1950s. Farmers can manage fruit fly infestations by ensuring fruit is buried or incinerated and not left to rot. Home gardens are also a major source of infestation, while baiting and removal of alternative hosts will reduce it. Contact Dr Pia Addison on (021) 808 4671 or visit www.sun.ac.za/entomology.
