Publication Type

Journal Article

Journal Name

Fruit Fly Research and Development in Africa - Towards a Sustainable Management Strategy to Improve Horticulture

Publication Date

1-1-2016

Abstract

In many African countries, the management of fruit flies relies heavily on applications of synthetic chemical insecticides that have detrimental effects on producers and consumers, the environment and often disrupt the activity of natural enemies. Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) which infect their hosts through the cuticle are being considered as alternatives to synthetic chemical insecticides and are being developed as mycoinsecticides. Since the life cycle of fruit flies takes place in the soil as pupating larvae and pupae, and in the canopy as adults, a two-pronged approach is being considered for their control by EPF. Prophylactic applications of mycoinsecticides to the soil before fruit set and infestation would be the ideal strategy for control of the soil-dwelling stages of fruit flies. However, a number of challenges need to be addressed because of the complex interactions amongst mycoinsecticides, the insect host, and the biotic and abiotic factors that occur in the soil. The second approach, autodissemination, is based on both the behaviour of adult flies, which are attracted to semiochemicals, and the unique characteristics of EPF that allows them to be transmitted horizontally. Examples of the development of EPF as mycoinsecticides and their use for the management of fruit flies in Africa are provided in this review. EPF fungi as components within an IPM approach, can provide sustainable control of fruit flies.

Keywords

Attractant, Autodissemination, Biocontrol, Biotic and abiotic factors, Entomopathogenic fungi, Formulation, Virulence

ISBN

[9783319432267, 9783319432243]

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