Global threats of bean fly [Ophiomyia spp.] on common bean: Perspectives and limitations of management practices

Publication Type

Journal Article

Journal Name

Crop Protection

Publication Date

2-1-2026

Abstract

One of the most pressing challenges of our time is ensuring sustainable food systems amid environmental, socioeconomic and climatic changes. Common bean farming plays a central role in enhancing food security and alleviating malnutrition, yet its productivity is severely constrained by herbivorous pests, especially bean flies, Ophiomyia spp. (Diptera: Agromyzidae). Despite their potential to cause up to 100 % crop yield loss, knowledge on their distribution and management remains limited. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive review of bean fly ecology and management strategies, drawing from peer-reviewed and grey literature from major academic databases (e.g., Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect) and complementary sources. Our findings highlight three key species—Ophiomyia phaseoli (Tryon), Ophiomyia spencerella (Greathead), and Ophiomyia centrosematis (Greathead)—each exhibiting distinct spatial and temporal distribution patterns. The species O. phaseoli and O. centrosematis are cosmopolitan, predominantly found in warm low-to mid-altitude regions, whereas O. spencerella is restricted to the tropical highlands of East Africa. The most significant yield losses are attributed to O. phaseoli and O. spencerella, while O. centrosematis occurs less frequently and has comparatively lower economic impact. Early sowing, increased precipitation, and greater varietal diversity are generally associated with lower infestation rates, whereas shortened off-season intervals and high planting densities create favourable conditions for population build-up. Synthetic pesticides remain the mainstay of bean fly control, yet they offer short-term benefits and pose considerable long-term risks to ecosystem integrity and human health. We advocate for research on sustainable bean fly management strategies that integrate ecological principles, safeguard ecosystem services, and sustain crop yields.

Keywords

Bean stem maggots, Biological control, Ophiomyia phaseoli, Ophiomyia spencerella, Phaseolus vulgaris, Stem flies

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS