Fifth detection of Bactrocera invadens in South Africa

Publication Date

Mon, 08 Aug 2011, 00:00

Last Updated

Oct. 3, 2011, 9:01 a.m.

Report Number

ZAF-11/2

Country

South Africa

Pest Id

Bactrocera invadens - (BCTRIN)

Report Status

Final

Hosts

Citrus spp are under immediate threat but other commodities that are exported and considered hosts of this pest and produced or present in this area in South Africa include man, guava, tomato, pepper (Capsicum spp) and several wild African fruits

Pest Status (old values from ISPM 8 -1998 )

• Transient: actionable, under eradication

Pest Status (ISPM 8 - 2021)

• Present: transient

Geographical Distribution

Two Bactrocera invadens specimens were detected in two Methyl Eugenol baited fruit fly traps in the Groblersbrug area in the Limpopo province of South Africa close to the Botswana border. Delimitation was carried out and the affected area has been p

Summary

On 4 May 2011 one exotic fruit fly specimen was detected in a Methyl Eugenol baited fruit fly trap in Groblersbrug area in the Limpopo province, close to the Botswana border. Subsequently, the NPPO of South Africa initiated a delimiting survey in accordance with the South African Bactrocera invadens Action Plan. On 1 July 2011, another specimen was collected in a separate Methyl Eugenol baited trap, within 1 km from the first detection site.

The fruit fly specimens were identified as Bactrocera invadens by the nominated local fruit fly expert and reported to Directorate Plant Health, Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in accordance with the relevant legislation and national Action Plan. Subsequently this identification has been confirmed by an internationally recognised fruit fly taxonomist.

A risk assessment was conducted and phytosanitary actions were implemented to control the movement of fruit from the area under delimitation. Eradication was initiated on 25 July 2011, which includes the application of weekly protein bait sprays and the deployment of male annihilation blocks in the quarantine area.

Danger

Potential spread to or establishment of Bactrocera invadens in other production areas where its presence may impede the export potential of the relevant host commodities affected as well as local trade.

Report files

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