First report of Dacus ciliatus in Syria
The fruit fly Dacus ciliatus (Diptera: Tephritidae – EPPO A2 List) is first recorded from Syria.
In August 2023, severe damage on cucurbit crops by a new pest was noted by farmers in several areas along the coastal region of Latakia, Syria.
Surveys were conducted in this area in 2023-2024 in over 20 fields and greenhouses of cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and squash (Cucurbita pepo). The pest identification was based on morphology.
The situation of Dacus ciliatus in Syria can be described as: Present, not widely distributed and not under official control.
Sources
Zeity M, David KJ, Al‐Rhaeyh Q, Issa S (2025) First record of invasive species, Dacus ciliatus Loew (Diptera, Tephritidae) on cucurbit crops in Latakia, Syria. EPPO Bulletin 55(2), 293-296.