Fruit fly integrated pest management for summerfruit, with a focus on developing an effective female lure-and-kill device (SF12013)

What was it all about?

This project demonstrated the effectiveness of a lure-and-kill tool for female Queensland fruit fly (Qfly), with the pest posing a risk for summerfruit, particularly with the loss of permits for chemical controls dimethoate and fenthion.

The objectives of the project centred on improving integrated pest management of Qfly.

Researchers identified fruit-derived chemical attractants for an affordable lure-and-kill device, which could be used in parallel with the annihilation technique to provide Qfly field control.

Researchers also tested a Ladd trap that showed promise as a research and monitoring tool for Qfly, and was recommended for further testing under a wider range of field conditions.

The team published a series of articles based on their findings in the Summerfruit Australia newsletter and on the industry website to assist growers to control fruit flies.

This work propelled the development of a female Qfly lure.