Population Dynamics and Damage Potential of Fruit Flies by Using the Pheromone Traps (Fruit fly traps) in Guava Orchard

A field investigation was undertaken at KVK, Katni, Madhya Pradesh, from September 2025 to January 2026 to characterize the population dynamics and damage potential of fruit flies (Bactrocera spp.) in a guava (Psidium guajava L.) orchard. Seasonal activity was monitored using fruit fly traps with a methyl eugenol-based biodegradable lure. The relationships between fruit fly population and weather parameters were also examined. Fruit fly abundance exhibited a progressive increase from the 36th SMW, attaining a maximum of 42.50 flies/trap/week in the 43rd SMW, and subsequently declined gradually. A comparable pattern was observed in fruit infestation, which increased from 8.33 per cent to 41.67 percent during the study period. Significant positive correlations were observed between fruit fly population and maximum temperature, minimum temperature and relative humidity, whereas rainfall and wind speed showed non-significant relationships. The regression model accounted for approximately 81 per cent of the variation in fruit fly population through the selected weather parameters. These findings establish a close relationship between fruit fly population abundance and fruit infestation and support the use of methyl eugenol traps for monitoring seasonal activity and facilitating timely management of fruit flies in guava orchards.