The Mediterranean fruit fly, scientifically known as Ceratitis capitata, is an insect species belonging to the family Tephritidae. Also called the medfly, it is a major agricultural pest that poses a significant threat to fruit crops across the Mediterranean region as well as various other parts of the world.
Measuring about 6-7 millimeters in length, the Mediterranean fruit fly features a vibrant coloration, including yellow or brownish-orange bodies with black patterns. These flies possess transparent wings with prominent black bands, which enable easy identification.
The life cycle of the medfly consists of four main stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Female medflies lay their eggs beneath the skin of ripe or nearly ripe fruits, including citrus, stone fruits, and other fruit types. Upon hatching, the larvae, known as maggots, feed on the fruit flesh, leading to damage and rot. The pupal stage occurs in the soil, where maggots form a hard case around themselves to transform into adults.
The economic impact of the Mediterranean fruit fly is substantial, as it inflicts severe losses on fruit production and international trade. Control measures are necessary to prevent its spread and mitigate its effect, including the implementation of quarantine regulations, the use of insecticides, and the establishment of sterile insect technique programs. Additionally, fruit inspection and monitoring are crucial in preventing the dispersion of this harmful insect.
