Description:

• Fruit flies are among the most significant pests of pumpkins during the fruiting stage.

Damage Symptoms:

• Tiny puncture marks on fruit surfaces that develop into soft, sunken areas.
• Fruit decay is caused by larval feeding.
• Premature fruit drop in cases of heavy infestations.
• Secondary infections may occur at the feeding sites of fruit flies.

Preventive Measures:

• Install pheromone traps.
• Practice field sanitation by removing infested fruits.

Control Measures:

• Spray Carbaryl at 2 g/l or Chlorpyrifos at 2 ml/l.