Evidence of orchid visitation by Bactrocera species (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Papua New Guinea

Abstract

Bactrocera Macquart (Diptera: Tephritidae) is a genus of nearly 500 species, the majority of which are endemic to tropical South-East Asia and Australasia (Drew 1989). Nearly all Bactrocera have frugivorous larvae that feed on the fleshy fruit of tropical trees, shrubs, and vines, and some species are major horticultural pests (White & Elson-Harris 1992). In this paper,where the term ‘fruit fly’ is used, we are referring explicitly to species of Bactrocera.