Optimizing Lure-Based Monitoring of Tephritid Fruit Flies: Insights from Trap Performance, Seasonal Trends, and Species Composition in Bangladesh

Nayma Akter; Sumita Rani  Das; Md. Towhidur Rahman; M. Aftab  Hossain; Abu Faiz Md. Aslam

doi:10.30550/j.azl/2291

Authors

Nayma Akter Department of Zoology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka-1342, Bangladesh https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5506-2675
Sumita Rani Das Department of Zoology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka-1342, Bangladesh https://orcid.org/0009-0005-6889-3196
Md. Towhidur Rahman Department of Zoology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka-1342, Bangladesh https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4296-5213
M. Aftab Hossain Insect Biotechnology Division, Institute of Food and Radiation Biology, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka-1349, Bangladesh https://orcid.org/0009-0009-7502-502X
Abu Faiz Md. Aslam Department of Zoology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka-1342, Bangladesh https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5248-3946

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30550/j.azl/2291

Keywords:

Methyl eugenol, Cue-lure, Lure efficacy, Fruit fly monitoring

Abstract

Tephritid fruit flies are major pests of fruits and vegetables in tropical regions, causing significant economic losses. Effective monitoring using male lure-based traps, such as methyl eugenol (ME) and cue-lure (CL), is essential for integrated pest management. This study evaluated the influence of lure type, trap height, storage condition, and seasonal dynamics on fruit fly captures at two sites (AERE and Jahangirnagar University) in the Savar region of Bangladesh. Methyl eugenol (ME) and cue-lure (CL) traps were deployed at three heights (2, 3, and 5 ft) over a one-year period (August 2023-July 2024). A total of 36,107 male fruit flies, representing nine Bactrocera, Dacus and Zeugodacus species, were recorded. ME traps consistently captured significantly more males than CL traps (p < 0.05), confirming strong lure-specific selectivity—B. dorsalis and B. zonata dominated ME catches, whereas Z. cucurbitae and Z. tau predominated in CL traps. Trap height showed no significant effect on captures, suggesting that low-level deployment (~1-1.5 m) is adequate for field monitoring. Fruit fly abundance peaked during summer (June-July) and declined in winter (December-February), reflecting climatic influences on population activity. Lure longevity tests demonstrated that cold storage (4°C) substantially prolonged lure efficacy compared to storage at room temperature or sunlight exposure. Collectively, these findings highlight that lure type, seasonal timing, and proper storage are key determinants of trapping success, while trap height plays a minor role. The results provide practical recommendations for optimizing fruit fly surveillance and integrated pest management strategies in Bangladesh.

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