Oriental Fruit Fly
What Does the Oriental Fruit Fly (OFF) Look Like?
The OFF body color is variable but generally bright yellow with a dark "T" shaped marking on the abdomen. The wings are clear.
When Was OFF First Found in California?
OFF was first found in California in 1960.
What Types of Plants Does the OFF Infest?
OFF is known to attack more than 230 fruits and vegetables, including pears, plums, cherries, peaches, apricots, figs, citrus and tomatoes.
What Kind of Damage Can the OFF Cause?
OFF causes damage by infesting fruit, vegetables and nuts with eggs, which hatch into larvae (maggots) and make the food unfit for human consumption. As the larvae develop and feed on the pulp, the fruit decays and falls to the ground, thereby destroying the crop.
What Could That Damage Mean to the Economy?
The CDFA has estimated that allowing the OFF to become established within California would cost in the range of $44 to $176 million in crop losses, additional pesticide use and quarantine requirements.
Are Quarantine and/or Eradication in Place for the OFF?
State and Federal Oriental fruit fly quarantines are in effect in the Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne and Claremont areas of Los Angeles County to restrict the movement of potentially infested host products. The most current eradication and quarantine projects can be viewed at www.aphis.usda.gov.
What Methods are Used to Control the OFF Population?
Eradication via male attractant technique (MAT) is the standard treatment technique for OFF. If larvae, mated females or numerous males are detected, additional ground treatments may be required.
What Can We Do?
Do not bring or mail fresh fruits, vegetables, plants or soil into California unless agricultural inspectors have cleared them. Never remove fresh produce from your property when your area is under OFF quarantine.
