1School of Agriculture, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Gautam Budh Nagar, 203201, Uttar Pradesh, India
*Email: uzma.manzoor@galgotiasuniversity.edu.in (corresponding author):
Online published on 26 February, 2026.
The present studies analyzed the spatio-temporal damage distribution pattern of melon fruit fly, Bactocera (Zeugodacus) cucurbitae in bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) flowers and fruits during the years 2022 and 2023 from March to May. Damage percentages were recorded at four developmental stages over eight standard meteorological weeks (SMWs). The results showed a consistent pattern, with damage gradually increasing from early March, peaking in mid-April (SMW 14-15), and declining by early May (SMW 18). Young fruits (<10 cm) were the most affected, reaching a peak damage of 11.62%, particularly during SMW 14 and 15, while flowers (ovary) consistently exhibited the lowest damage. The statistical analysis revealed that the critical periods for intervention to minimize crop loss are during the early stages of fruit development, when damage susceptibility is highest. These findings underscore the importance of targeted management strategies focused on young fruits to improve yield and quality during the season.
Bactocera (Zeugodacus) cucurbitae, Bottle gourd, Damage, Distribution, Insect, Melon fruit fly, Lagenaria siceraria, Percent incidence, Spatio-temporal damage, Management, Yield
