Rearing Techniques for Dacus latifrons (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Abstract

Simple low cost techniques and equipment have been developed for large scale production of Malaysian fruit fly, Dacus latifrons (Hendel). An artificial wheat diet was modified for use as a production diet by addition of carrot powder (7.5% by vol), which significantly increased pupal yield and adult fecundity, and citric acid (0.35%), which controlled fungi encountered during large scale rearing. A new oviposition device, enclosable larval rearing trays, a larval collection cabinet, and specialized pupal holding procedures are described. During a 1 yr period 7,611,040 D. latifrons pupae were produced from 25,714,344 fertile eggs in less than 77 m2 of space in 120 personnel hr per wk to support commodity treatment, attractant screening, and sterile insect release method research programs.