Comparative performance of food and olfactory attractants for monitoring Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann and Bactrocera zonata Saunders, and the efficacy of modified insecticide application strategies in a peach orchard

Abstract

Fruit flies, particularly Ceratitis capitata and Bactrocera zonata, are among the most destructive pests affecting fruit crops worldwide. This study was conducted in Nubaria region, Beheira Governorate, Egypt during the 2023 and 2024 seasons to evaluate the effectiveness of different attractants and control methods under field conditions. Four attractants were tested: di-ammonium phosphate, ammonium acetate, buminal, and amadene. Results showed that ammonia-based lures (di-ammonium phosphate and ammonium acetate) consistently attracted significantly more C. capitata and B. zonata adults, particularly females, compared to food-based lures. Di-ammonium phosphate recorded the highest capture rates across both seasons. In parallel, three control techniques were evaluated: complete cover spray, partial bait application, and thermal fogging (at 75% and 50% doses from the recommended rates). Partial bait spray and thermal fogging at 75% dose achieved the highest reduction rates for both fly species, maintaining over 80% efficacy up to 15 days post-treatment. In contrast, full cover spraying showed the lowest efficacy and rapid decline over time, indicating limited residual activity. Thermal fogging at 50% dose offered moderate initial control but with reduced longevity. The findings highlight the superiority of ammonia-based attractants for monitoring and support the adoption of bait spray and thermal fogging (at reduced doses) as effective, low-input strategies for fruit fly management as part of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.