Temporal distribution and morphological differentiation of dominant Tephritid fruit flies

Abstract

The diversity, abundance, and morphometric variability of citrus fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) in mandarin orchards were assessed, identifying Bactrocera dorsalis, B. zonata, and B. correcta as the dominant species. Systematic trapping with methyl eugenol-baited parapheromone traps from the 39th to 52nd meteorological weeks captured 1, 203 adults, with B. dorsalis comprising 53.12%, B. zonata 37.65%, and B. correcta 9.23%. Adult emergence peaked during the 41st week, highlighting a critical period for monitoring and control. Morphological and morphometric analyses revealed clear interspecific differences in body size, wing span, and diagnostic traits such as cephalic pigmentation, thoracic vittae, wing venation, and abdominal patterning, with B. dorsalis being the largest species. These results provide a baseline for understanding species composition, seasonal dynamics, and morphological variability in mandarin orchards. The findings support accurate species identification and the timing of targeted pest management strategies, contributing to sustainable citrus production and reduced economic losses from fruit fly infestations.