Tackling the musk melon fruit fly: A threat to favourite summer fruit

Abstract

The melon fruit fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae, is a major pest of muskmelon and other cucurbit crops, causing severe yield losses ranging from 30% to 100%. Infestation begins with egg laying in tender plant parts, followed by larval feeding that leads to fruit rotting and reduced market value. Its rapid life cycle, wide host range, and increasing resistance to chemical insecticides complicate
management. Sustainable control requires an integrated pest management (IPM) approach combining cultural, mechanical, and biotechnical strategies. Key practices include field sanitation, deep ploughing, fruit bagging, and timely crop management. Techniques such as Male Annihilation Technique (MAT) using Arka Cucurlure and Bait Application Technique (BAT), along with botanical insecticides, offer eco-friendly and effective solutions for long-term suppression.