First report of Zaprionus tuberculatus in mainland France
Zaprionus tuberculatus (Diptera: Drosophilidae – formerly EPPO Alert List) is reported for the first time from mainland France*. The pest was found during a research project which was conducted from March 2022 to February 2023 to better understand the population dynamics of Drosophila suzukii and survey drosophilid communities. The first specimens of Z. tuberculatus were caught in a fig (Ficus carica) orchard in Salses-le-Château (Pyrénées-Orientales department, Occitanie region) in July 2022. During the whole monitoring period, a total of 111 specimens of Z. tuberculatus were caught in this fig orchard and a nearby hedgerow. As the presence of Z. tuberculatus has been observed during 2 consecutive years, it is considered that the species is established. The identity of the pest was confirmed by examination of its morphological characteristics.
Although the pest status and the potential risks Z. tuberculatus may present to agriculture remain to be clarified, it is noted that attention to this species should paid. Further surveys and studies will be conducted to better understand its biology and the potential damage it may cause to fruit crops, such as figs, citrus and strawberries.
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* Zaprionus tuberculatus occurs in Réunion and Mayotte.
Sources
Georges R, Yassin A, Colinet H (2024) First record of Zaprionus tuberculatus (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in mainland France. Entomological Research 54, e12725. https://doi.org/10.1111/1748-5967.12725