Abstract:

[Objectives] The effect of guava fruit odor on the behavior of the guava fruit fly, Bactrocera correcta was measured in order to provide theoretical basis for the chemical ecological control of this species. [Methods] The behavioral responses and flight speeds of sexually immature, mature virgin, and mated, male and female fruit flies to guava fruit odor were investigated in a wind tunnel. [Results] Guava fruit odor attracted fruit flies in in all three stages of reproductive development. The majority of fruit flies that landed on the odor source were mated females, followed by mature virgin males. Sexually immature males were the least attracted to the odor source. Compared to the control (no odor), fruit flies in all three stages of reproductive development increased their flight speeds when exposed to guava odor. Mature females flies flew faster than mature males. [Conclusion] The attractiveness of guava odor to B. correcta varies with the reproductive status of these fruit flies. Mated females are most strongly attracted by guava odor, followed by mature virgin males, whereas immature males are less attracted.

Key words: Bactrocera correcta, guava fruit volatiles, wind tunnel, physiological states, behavioral response