Population dynamics of fruit fly [Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendle)] on sapota

A study on population dynamics of fruit fly, B. dorsalis infesting sapota was carried out at during November 2009 to October 2010 by using “Nauroji Stonehouse fruit fly trap”. The study indicated that the fruit fly population prevailed throughout the year. However, its maximum activity (172.1 flies per trap) was found during March to August. Population was found to be lower during month of December and January (11.1 to 21.3 flies per trap). The fly population coincided with the maturity and harvesting period of sapota. Correlation studies revealed that, the B. dorsalis population had significantly positive correlation with temperature (maximum, minimum and average) and morning relative humidity whereas, it has positive non-significant correlation with average relative humidity and rainfall. The data also indicated that, the fruit fly population had negative correlation with the maximum relative humidity.