Parapheromone Mechanism and Mass Male Annihilation
Methyl Eugenol mimics the natural aggregation and mating scents that attract male *Bactrocera dorsalis* fruit flies over long distances. In combination with a trace insecticide (such as malathion or spinosad) on an absorbent plywood or cotton wick, it eliminates attracted males upon entry.
Executing the male annihilation technique (MAT) deprives female flies of mates, preventing fertile egg deposition beneath the fruit skin.
- Target species: Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) and peach fruit fly (Bactrocera zonata).
- High lure specificity: Highly attractive to male fruit flies without attracting beneficial pollinators or predatory wasps.
- Prevents maggot rot: Stops female flies from laying eggs that turn into destructive maggots inside ripening fruits.
- Approved IPM practice: Compatible with certified organic farming and export-grade residue-free fruit production.
Trap Installation, Density, and Maintenance
Lure deployment should begin 45 to 60 days before fruit harvest when fruits begin the color-break ripening phase.
Regular wick recharging and emptying of captured flies maintain high pheromone plume dispersal across the orchard canopy.
- Trap density: Install 6 to 10 traps per acre for mass trapping and 2 to 4 traps per acre for population monitoring.
- Hanging position: Suspend traps inside the tree canopy in shaded branches approximately 1.5 to 2 meters above the ground.
- Lure replacement: Re-charge or replace the methyl eugenol wooden block every 6 to 8 weeks depending on ambient heat.
- Disposal: Empty captured flies periodically to keep entry holes unobstructed.
Official source
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National Institute of Plant Health Management ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is Methyl Eugenol and how does it trap fruit flies?
Methyl Eugenol is a powerful parapheromone attractant that lures male oriental fruit flies into traps where they are eliminated, preventing reproduction.
How many fruit fly traps are recommended per acre in a mango orchard?
For effective mass trapping, install 6 to 10 traps per acre distributed uniformly across the orchard canopy.
When should fruit fly traps be installed in orchards?
Install traps approximately 6 to 8 weeks before fruit harvest, when fruits start maturing and changing color.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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