Reproductive biology of Bactrocera (Zeugodacus) scutellata (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Author of the article:JIN Yan1, 2** LIU Xiao-Fei1** HE Xing-Cai3 YE Hui1***
Author's Workplace：1. Laboratory of Biological Invasion and Transboundary Eco-security, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China; 2. School of Economics and Management, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; 3. Xingguo Plant Protection Burea, Jiangxi Province, Xinigguo 342400, China
Key Words：Bactrocera scutellata, host plant, larva, reproductive behavior, ovarian morphology
Abstract： [Objectives] To confirm the biological characteristics of Bactrocera (Zeugodacus) scutellata (Hendel), including its effects on host plants, reproductive features and potential to cause significant economic damage. [Methods] Field surveys and laboratory experiments. [Results] Pumpkins are important host plants of B. scutellata; females laid eggs on the top of pumpkin flower buds and the larvae ate the flower stamens from top to bottom before dropping to the ground. The mature ovaries of female adults contained a low number of eggs. [Conclusion] B. scutellata has a narrow range of host plants, low reproductive capacity and causes inconspicuous damage to plant crops. Male pumpkin flowers could be important indicators for monitoring this pest’s population dynamics and the resultant information could provide a scientific basis for the effective control of B. scutellata.