Several male, Bactrocera dorsalis specimens, were detected in Methyl Eugenol-baited traps from Douglas to Kakamas, alongside or close to the Orange River, in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa. The first Bactrocera dorsalis specimens were detected in Douglas on 14 March 2020, in Groblershoop on 14 February 2020, in Wilgenhoutsdrif on 23 March 2020, Karos and Upington on 23 March 2020, in Kakamas on 03 March 2020, in Keimoes on 04 March 2020 as well as Augrabies on 18 March 2020. Other detection occurred in Jan-Kempdorp for the first time on 26 February 2020 and 13 March 2020, as well as in Kuruman on 13 February 2020 and 18 March 2020. Citrus, table grapes and pomegranates are produced in the Kakamas and Augrabies areas.
The identifications of all the specimens were confirmed by an expert in Entomology through molecular analysis (PCR).
Phytosanitary actions were implemented to control the movement of fruit from the area under delimitation. Eradication actions were implemented and include the application of protein bait sprays, deployment of male annihilation (MAT) blocks and strict field sanitation within the quarantine area. Eradication actions will be deployed for a minimum period of eight weeks or over two life cycles of the OFF if it is longer than 8 weeks. After implementation of eradication actions, a monitoring period of four weeks or one life cycle will be conducted. If there are no further detection during the monitoring period, the quarantine areas can be declared as free from the presence of Bactrocera dorsalis. The status of the pest in the lower Orange River area is: Transient, actionable and under eradication to prevent establishment.