Occurrence, Biological Characteristics, and Annual Dynamics of Atherigona orientalis (Schiner 1968) (Diptera: Muscidae) in China

Atherigona orientalis (Diptera: Muscidae) may be a neglected agricultural pest worldwide since the public generally regards it as a saprophytic and sanitary insect. In fact, A. orientalis can infest over 50 varieties of fruits and vegetables in 26 families listed as quarantine pests in several countries. Regrettably, there are few reports of this pest despite its prevalence in the pantropical regions of many countries. In this study, we reported the distributions, morphological, and biological characteristics, including the host ranges, developmental durations, color selections, and population dynamics changes of A. orientalis in Hunan Province. Currently, A. orientalis has been found in each prefectural and municipal city of Hunan Province, China. Additionally, 15 out of 20 host plants we collected were infested. The developmental durations of the egg, larva, and pupa of A. orientalis ranged from 2 to 3, 5 to 7, and 6 to 8 days, respectively. The results of color selections showed that A. orientalis adults tend to prefer green and yellow colors. Moreover, the population dynamics of A. orientalis in Changsha City showed that July and August were the population peaks throughout the year. Our research supplements valuable data of A. orientalis for pest management and subsequent studies.