Diversity and distribution of fruit flies (diptera: tephr1tidae) attacking pumpkin [cucurhita maxima duchesne ex lam ] in Zambia.
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Date
2012
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Sokoine University of Agriculture
Abstract
The study on the diversity and distribution of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) in
Zambia were carried out during the 2010/ 11 C (October to April).
Three sites were selected in three agro-ecological regions. The aim of the study was
to: establish the diversity of cucurbits infesters; assess infestation rate of fruit flies
attacking pumpkin in Central Zambia; assess distribution and seasonal abundance of
cucurbits infesters; determine the influence of climate on abundance of cucurbit
infesters; and predict the potential distribution of Bactrocera cucurbitae in Zambia.
Data on infestation rate were collected by random pumpkin fruit sampling in Central
Zambia and rearing during the 2010/11 cropping season. Fruit flies collected from
each site were identified to determine the species composition and diversity. The data
on population dynamics were collected by installing cue lure baited traps at selected
sites in three agro-ecological zones of Zambia. The influence of abiotic factors on
population fluctuation was determined using simple correlation and linear regression
models. CLIMEX’1 software package was used to predict the distribution potential of
B. cucurbitae in Zambia. The study focused on fruit flies of economic importance that
attack pumpkin. A total of 11 species representing the genera Dacus and Ceratitis
were recorded in Central Zambia with Chilanga showing the highest diversity. The
infestation for Dacus ciliatus was the highest compared to Dacus bivittatus and Dacus
vertebratus. The dominant species in all the agro-ecological zones was Dacus
bivittatus with insignificant Seasonal abundance differences. This was attributed to the
availability of host fruits throughout the year. Reliable risk map for potential
geographical distribution of B. cucurbitae was generated. An integrated systems
approach for the management of fruit flies has been suggested.
Description
Disseratation
Keywords
Distribution of fruit, cropping season, Attacking pumpkin, Central Zambia, Cropping season