Solulys or Mazoferm based protein baited traps are important components used to monitor melon fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquilett) (Diptera: Tephritidae) breeding. Reduction in the efficacy of the traps due to solidification in hot and dry locations was a major problem that detracts from accurate monitoring. Experiments were conducted to determine if propylene glycol and water mixture could extend the stability, increase efficiency and reduce solidification without affecting trap catches. Protein baits containing °Ü 25% antifreeze were found either turned into gel or solidified after two weeks while baits containing 50% antifreeze remained liquid for > 4 weeks. Protein baits containing 50% propylene glycol antifreeze were compared at two and four-weeks intervals for catching efficiency. No significant difference was found between the numbers of fly catch per day in the fresh and old protein bait.
Species 1: Diptera Tephritidae Bactrocera cucurbitae (Melon fly)
Keywords: fruit fly, monitoring
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