Perception of Ghanaian mango farmers on the pest status and current management practices for the control of the African invader fly, Bactrocera invadens (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Abstract

The African invader fly Bactrocera invadens Drew, Tsuruta and White, generally considered as the most devastating pest of mango was detected in Africa (in Kenya, East Africa) in 2003. It was first detected in Ghana, West Africa in 2005. The perception of mango farmers from Dangbe West and Yilo-Krobo districts in Ghana on the pest status and the current management options adopted for the control of this pest was sought by use of a Questionnaire. The survey results indicated that Ghanaian farmers rank B. invadens among the major pests of mango in Ghana. Farmers generally, believed that it is more damaging than other arthropod pest of mango. Possible losses such as loss of market value, rejection of produce at the international markets and quarantine restriction due to the presence of the pest were also reported by the farmers. Several strategies are being adopted by farmers for the control of fruit flies (including B. invadens) in Ghana. These strategies include the use of insecticides, cultural control measures, and use of trappings to manage fruit flies. Some of the respondents use a combination of insecticides and cultural practices to reduce the menace of fruit flies. It was evident that farmers adopt multiple strategies to minimize the losses due to fruit flies in an IPM fashion.