Exotic Fruit Flies Found In Pinellas County
For Information, Contact:
Denise Feiber, FDACS/DPI
(352) 372-3505 ext. 102
cell: (352) 235-0036
Denise.Feiber@freshfromflorida.com
Nolan Lemon, USDA
(919) 855-7008
August 31, 2010
TALLAHASSEE – Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson says two male Oriental fruit flies have been found in a trap in a grapefruit tree in Safety Harbor, Pinellas County, Florida. The flies (Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Tephritidae) were found during routine surveillance activities earlier this month conducted by the department’s Division of Plant Industry.
“This is a disturbing find because of the extreme risks associated with exotic fruit fly infestations,” said Commissioner Bronson. “However, it is a clear indication that our fruit fly detection and monitoring program is working well, and fortunately, we have developed effective emergency response plans that in most cases allow us to quickly eradicate these dangerous pests.. The state, along with our federal partners, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, are pouring all available resources to address the fruit fly find in Pinellas County,” said Commissioner Bronson.
The Oriental fruit fly is considered one of the most serious of the world’s fruit fly pests due to its potential economic harm. It attacks more than 100 different fruits, vegetables and nuts, including citrus, apples, guava, mango, tomatoes and peppers. As with other fruit flies, it is not safe to rule out many plants as potential hosts. The fruit flies lay their eggs in the fruits and vegetables. In a few weeks, the larvae or maggots hatch and render the fruits or vegetables inedible.
The department has launched an intensified trapping program in an 81-square mile area surrounding the fruit fly find in Pinellas County until mid December. If any more flies are found the trapping will continue and an insecticide will be applied to telephone poles along with a substance that attracts the flies. As of this date, no additional fly has been found.
Twenty-four hours prior to the application of any pesticides or other treatment activities, public notification and treatment area maps will be published in local newspapers. Additional public outreach activities will be conducted as more information becomes available.
Agricultural officials are attempting to determine the source of the fruit that carried these flies into Florida. Report any information on the possible origin of these flies to the USDA’s anti-smuggling hotline at 1-800-877-3835.
State and federal agencies will work with local governments to keep the public involved and to provide updated and accurate information. More information can be found at the Department’s website at http://www.freshfromflorida.com/pi/enpp/ento/exoticfruitflies.html including maps of the infested areas and detailed information on the Oriental fruit fly. You can also call the Department’s toll-free help number at 888-397-1517.
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