FRUIT FLIES CONTROL WITH PLANT SUBSTANCES

Abstract

In order to reduce contamination problems and fruit flies (Anastrepha spp.) development of resistance to insecticides, it is important to look for control alternatives. Therefore, the effect of leaf infusions of three plant species, acuyo (Piper auritum H.B.K.), eggplant (Solanum mammosum L.) and annona (Annona squamosa L.) was evaluated against the fruit flies infesting guava (Psidium guajava L.), and mango (Mangifera indica L.). The infusion of P. auritum alone plus destruction of fallen fruit were also tested in a mango fruit fly management program. In guava, the reduction of fruit fly larvae varied from 78 to 90 % with P. auritum, while with A. squamosa or S. mammosum it ranged from 34 to 85 %, as compared to the control. All infusions on mangoes resulted in zero infestation by fruit flies, but not in guava where some infested fruits were detected after treatments. When P. auritum was sprayed and the fallen fruit was destroyed there was not fruit fly infestation in a mango orchard.