Diversity and distribution of fruit flies (diptera: tephr1tidae) attacking pumpkin [cucurhita maxima duchesne ex lam ] in Zambia.
| dc.contributor.author | Mwape, Chiluba | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2026-07-21T13:00:45Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2026-07-21T13:00:45Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2012 | |
| dc.description | Disseratation | |
| dc.description.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. | |
| dc.description.sponsorship | Alliance for Green Revolution for Africa (AGRA) and Centre of Phytosanitary Excellence (COPE) | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://www.suaire.sua.ac.tz/handle/20.500.14820/7810 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.publisher | Sokoine University of Agriculture | |
| dc.subject | Distribution of fruit | |
| dc.subject | cropping season | |
| dc.subject | Attacking pumpkin | |
| dc.subject | Central Zambia | |
| dc.subject | Cropping season | |
| dc.title | Diversity and distribution of fruit flies (diptera: tephr1tidae) attacking pumpkin [cucurhita maxima duchesne ex lam ] in Zambia. | |
| dc.type | Thesis |