Monitoring and management of black fig fly (Lonchaeidae: Silba adipata): A new invasive pest in California figs

The black fig fly (Lonchaeidae: Silba adipata McAlpine 1956) (BFF) is an insect native to the Mediterranean and Middle East that exclusively oviposits and feeds on figs (Moraceae: Ficus carica L.). In 2020 BFF was reported from fig orchards in Mexico, and in June 2021 the BFF was discovered infesting figs in orchards throughout southern California. Since approximately 90% of California, fig production is in the Central Valley and BFF infestation has not been reported yet, fig orchards in Southern California and Central Coast regions as well as Central Valley were monitored. The McPhail-type traps (Great Lakes IPM) baited with 4 pellets of torula yeast were used as a lure for monitoring. For an effective monitoring system, a comparison between McPhail-type traps and different lures (Ammonium sulfate, Ammonium bicarbonate, Hexanol, Hexanol with ammonium sulfate, and Hexanol with ammonium bicarbonate) in the number of BFF caught were done. McPhail-type traps and yellow sticky traps were compared as well. The efficacy of chemical controls will be evaluated against adult BFF populations, including products that are allowed for use in certified organic production. The different counties and regions delineation results and the optimized trap and lure combination for BFF monitoring as well as the best possible chemical control for organic and non-organic productions will be presented in this talk.