Trapping studies for Neoceratitis cyanescens (Trirhithromyia cyanescens)
Neoceratitis cyanescens (Trirhithromyia cyanescens, EU Annexes) is a pest of Solanaceous crops in the Indian Ocean region, causing damage essentially on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum), and to a lesser extent on aubergine (Solanum melongena), pepper and sweet pepper (Capsicum frutescens and C. annuum). Laboratory studies have showed that mature females are attracted by bright orange yellow shapes (mimic of tomato fruit). In addition to visual characteristics, mature females are also attracted by plant volatiles. It is felt that attractive traps will have to combine spherical orange shapes and plant attractants.
Sources
Brévault, T.; Quilici, S.; Glénac, S. (1999) Mouche de la tomate à l'île de la Réunion. Utiliser les signaux émis par la plante-hôte pour piéger les femelles.
Phytoma - La Défense des Végétaux, no. 515, 35-36.