Mediterranean fruit-fly

Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly) is not present in the ACT. In Australia, it is found only in Western Australia, mainly in the south-west.

About the pest

Medfly is one of the world’s most destructive fruit pests. Its wide host range and tolerance of cooler climates makes it highly invasive. Medfly is a serious problem for fruit growers. It originally came from Africa and was first found in WA in 1895.

Medfly attacks many types of fruit and some fruiting vegetables. Worldwide, it can infest more than 200 host plants.

Why they are a problem

In areas where it occurs, Medfly affects both commercial growers and home gardeners.

The female fly lays eggs in ripe fruit. The larvae then feed inside the fruit, causing damage.

For fruit and vegetable producers, Medfly can lead to:

• Lower yields
• Poor fruit quality
• Higher control costs
• Restricted market access, as many places do not accept fruit from Medfly-affected regions.

What to look for

Damaged fruit:

• Small ‘sting’ marks where eggs are laid
• Bruising on the skin of ripe fruit
• Soft or rotten areas cause by larvae feeding.

Larvae (maggots)

Medfly larvae are most easily seen in the flesh of ripe infested host fruit. Larvae are white with a flat pointed head.

Adult Medfly

An adult Medfly is 3–5 mm long and yellowish brown in colour. The patterned wings have yellowish brown bands extending to the wing tips. In comparison, adult Queensland fruit fly is larger, reddish brown in colour with yellow markings and no visible markings on the wings.

How it spreads

Adult Medflies can fly short distances on their own. They can spread long-distances when infested fruit or produce is moved from one area to another.

For more information visit Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development - Mediterranean fruit-fly.

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