Bactrocera dorsalis specimens were detected in Methyl Eugenol (ME) baited traps in the Addo area of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa which is approximately 40km North from Port Elizabeth.
The fruit fly specimens were identified as Bactrocera dorsalis by the nominated local fruit fly expert and reported to Directorate Plant Health, Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development in accordance with the relevant legislation and National Action Plan. The identification of the specimens was confirmed through molecular analysis.
Phytosanitary actions were implemented to control the movement of fruit from the area under delimitation. Eradication, which included the application of weekly protein bait sprays and the deployment of male annihilation blocks in the quarantine area was carried out for a period of more than eight weeks. The last positive detection of B. dorsalis in the area was on 9 July 2020. Since then, no B. dorsalis was detected. Based on temperature records prevailing in the area, the period from the last detection to date represents more than 4 generations of B. dorsalis. The monitoring records therefore effectively demonstrate that B. dorsalis was eradicated from the Addo area.
The status of the pest in this area is: Absent, eradicated.