Update on the situation of Dacus ciliatus in Cyprus
Dacus ciliatus (Diptera: Tephritidae – EPPO A2 List) was first reported in Cyprus in June 2024 (EPPO RS 2024/146) on cucumbers (Cucumis sativus), zucchini (Cucurbita pepo), watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and melon (Cucumis melo). The NPPO of Cyprus has been carrying out an official survey across the island since this first report. As a result, the pest was identified in 16 new areas including new infestations in Nicosia and Limassol districts, which were previously pest-free, and new locations in Larnaca and Ammochostos districts where the pest had already been found. The total infested area is now 12.03 ha, previously it was 6.11 ha, and includes both greenhouses and small fields.
Official phytosanitary measures aiming at eradicating D. ciliatus are applied. This includes the demarcation of the area around infested fields, insecticide treatments, destruction of infested fruits. Surveys are continuing throughout the island.
The pest status of D. ciliatus in Cyprus, is officially declared as: Present, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Cyprus (2025-01). |