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Cold Disinfestation of Zeugodacus tau (Diptera: Tephritidae) on Oranges Using Artificial Infestation Method
Jiajiao Wu1, Mutao Wu1, Lixia Feng1
1Guangzhou Customs District Technology Center, No. 66 Huacheng Avenue, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510623, China.
Insects
|March 28, 2026
Summary
Cold disinfestation treatments effectively control Zeugodacus tau, an economically significant fruit fly. Studies show specific cold schedules, like 22 days at ≤1.67°C for oranges, prevent fruit fly survival and mitigate introduction risks.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Entomology
- Pest Management
- Food Security
Background:
- Zeugodacus tau is a significant fruit fly pest, infesting cucurbits and other plant families.
- Phytosanitary treatments are crucial for international fruit trade to prevent pest establishment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine effective cold disinfestation treatments for Zeugodacus tau in citrus.
- To establish quarantine security against Z. tau based on International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Artificial infestation of oranges with third instar Zeugodacus tau larvae.
- Application of cold treatments at various temperatures and durations (e.g., 1.75°C for 23 days, 2.34°C for 25 days, 1.8°C for 22 days).
- Assessment of larval survival post-treatment.
Main Results:
- The third instar Zeugodacus tau was the most cold-tolerant developmental stage.
- No survivors were observed in oranges treated at 1.75°C for 23 days, 2.34°C for 25 days, or 1.8°C for 22 days.
- Zeugodacus tau demonstrated higher cold tolerance compared to other reported tephritid species.
Conclusions:
- A 22-day cold treatment at ≤1.67°C is proposed as a safety measure for citrus imports.
- For other hosts, 23 days at 1.75°C or 25 days at 2.34°C are recommended for quarantine security.
- Cold disinfestation is a viable strategy to mitigate the risk of Zeugodacus tau introduction and establishment.
