Summary of Management of Mango Cecid Fly

Scientific Concepts, Discoveries, and Natural Phenomena Presented

• Mango Cecid Fly (Procontarinia prugibora):
  • A tiny gall midge insect, closely related to mosquitoes but more delicate with only two wings.
  • Causes damage to mango fruits by laying eggs on the fruit surface; larvae feed inside the fruit causing scarring known as "kurikung."
  • The insect is highly specialized, feeding exclusively on mango fruit (unlike other Procontarinia species that feed on leaves or flowers).
  • Life cycle is short, about 8-12 days from egg to adult, with larvae feeding inside fruit for 3-4 days.
  • Multiple generations can occur within a single mango fruit development period (32 to 75 days after flower induction).
• Mango Development Stages and Pest Vulnerability:
  • Mango fruit development stages are measured in days after flower induction (DAFI).
  • Cecid fly attacks mainly occur between 32 to 75 DAFI.
  • Early fruit drop (around 32-35 DAFI) often contains larvae and becomes a breeding ground for further infestation.
  • Damage severity depends on timing of infestation; earlier attacks cause larger scars as fruit grows.
• Insecticide Resistance in Mango Cecid Fly:
  • Repeated use of the same insecticide leads to resistance, where a portion of the population survives and passes on resistant genes.
  • Resistance increases with each generation if insecticides with the same mode of action are repeatedly used.
  • Farmers often reuse the same insecticides due to availability and cost, exacerbating resistance.
• Ineffective Insecticide Application Methods:
  • Common method: diluted cover spray using power sprayers.
  • Problem: insecticide droplets form large beads on mango fruit surface and roll off, leading to poor coverage.
  • Solution: add Spreader/Wetting Agents to reduce surface tension and improve insecticide adherence on fruit.
• Decline of Natural Enemies:
  • Overuse of pesticides kills beneficial insects (larval and pupal parasitoids) that naturally control Mango Cecid Fly populations.
  • Loss of natural enemies contributes to pest outbreaks and failure of chemical control.

Methodology and Recommendations for Management

• Understanding Life Cycle and Timing:
  • Monitor mango development stages closely, especially from 32 to 75 DAFI.
  • Early detection and control are critical to prevent population buildup.
• Insecticide Resistance Management (IRM):
  • Alternate insecticides with different modes of action (MOA) to prevent resistance buildup.
  • Use MOA color-coded guides and web applications (e.g., https://mango.irm.com) to select appropriate insecticides.
  • Follow recommended dosages and application intervals.
• Improved Insecticide Application:
  • Use Spreader/Wetting Agents to improve coverage and efficacy.
  • Avoid excessive spraying to reduce environmental impact and preserve natural enemies.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approaches:
  • Combine chemical control with cultural practices such as:
    • Bagging fruits to protect from infestation.
    • Mulching to improve orchard conditions.
    • Sanitation by removing fallen infested fruits to reduce breeding sites.
  • Reduce frequency of insecticide applications to conserve beneficial insects.
• Education and Extension:
  • Farmer training on pest biology, life cycle, and proper insecticide use.
  • Development of guides and manuals on pest and resistance management.

Researchers and Sources Featured

• Dr. Celia Medina
  • Professor of Entomology, University of the Philippines Los Baños.
  • Expertise in insect ecology, pest management, and crop protection.
  • Research includes mango and coconut insect pests, insecticide resistance, and pest detection technologies.
  • Contributor to development of Insecticide Resistance Management guides and farmer training tools.
• Collaborators and Organizations:
  • DNA Barcoding Facility (DNA BAR FPA)
  • University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB)
  • Philippine Coconut Authority
  • Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA)

This summary encapsulates the scientific insights on Mango Cecid Fly biology, damage, and integrated management strategies highlighted by Dr. Celia Medina, emphasizing the importance of timing, resistance management, improved insecticide application, and conservation of natural enemies.

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Science and Nature

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