Details on the situation of Bactrocera zonata in Egypt
As reported in EPPO RS 99/060, Bactrocera zonata (EPPO A1 quarantine pest) has been reported for the first time in Egypt. It can be noted that this pest is absent from any other Mediterranean or African countries (with the exception of Mauritius where some adventive populations have been recorded). The origin of this introduction is unknown. B. zonata was first noticed on guava (Psidium guajava) in Agamy and Sabahia districts near the city of Alexandria during summer 1997. B. zonata has a wide host range (peach, guava, mango, date palm, apples, bitter gourd, okra, pomegranate, papaya, fig, quince, citrus, etc.). A mission was set up in 1999 to evaluate the situation and propose measures for control and eradication of the pest. Apparently, B. zonata is established and present in the delta, lower, middle and upper Nile (up to Aswan), up to Suez canal towards the east. However, it is thought that some areas (north Sinai or oases to the west of the Nile) are still free from the pest. A control and eradication programme is proposed, as well as measures to prevent any further spread.
Sources
Joomaye, A.; Knight, J.; Routhier, W. (1999) Evaluation of the peach fruit fly problem in Egypt with recommendations for its control and eradication, including a limited cost-benefit analysis. A report on a mission to Egypt June 11 to June 24 1999.