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Family Drosophilidae
contains over 50 species - for the purposes of this text they will
be discussed in general terms.
Slight morphological and
behavioural differences are not critical to the discussion of
control of these pests. |
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Fruit Flies -
Drosophila Sp
Image Copyright - Aventis
Environmental Science 1964. Reproduced with kind permission of Aventis Environmental
Science. |
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Class: |
Insecta
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Order:
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Diptera
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Family:
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Drosophilidae
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Where infestation
develop in industrial areas and kitchens, the propensity of some
species for feeding on excrement and detritus and translocating
bacteria make this family a serious pest.
Generation time is
remarkably short and breeding potential exacerbates the significance
of this pest. |
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Adult mated females are
capable of laying 20 - 25 eggs per day to a maximum of around
800. Eggs are laid on the food substrate of the larvae,
which pass through three instars after hatching. Pupation
generally occurs away from the food substrate. The full life
cycle can be completed in as little as 8 days under favourable
conditions. |
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These species are almost
always associated with fermentation. Prevention of debris
collecting in drains and gullies is essential. Frequent
washing down of areas of infestation is recommended. Subject
to local regulations, space sprays, baits and residual treatments
may be of benefit in their control. |
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