Melanagromyza vignalis Spencer (Diptera: Agromyzidae): a new invasive pest impacting cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp., in Brazil

The pod fly Melanagromyza vignalis Spencer (Diptera: Agromyzidae) has posed a major constraint to cowpea cultivation because it damages pods and seeds, thus representing a pest of significant economic importance. This study aimed to clarify the identity of the pod fly responsible for damage to cowpea crops in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil. Specimens collected from cowpea production areas in the states of Pará, Paraíba, and Pernambuco were identified as M. vignalis through morphological and molecular analyses. The species is native to the African continent, and this report constitutes the first record for South America. The larvae damage developing grains, rendering them unfit for consumption. Species identification represents the first step toward implementing appropriate control strategies for this pest in Brazil.