Adapting to climate disparities: Implications for fruit fly populations in citrus orchards

Abstract

Abstract In the context of climate change, the agricultural sector faces the imperative of devising adaptive strategies to mitigate emerging challenges. This study aimed to know the relationship between climatic disparities and fruit fly populations in citrus orchards. Utilizing Steiner trap and Methyl Eugenol wooden blocks as monitoring, male annihilation controlling devices, and spraying protein bait, we conducted a comprehensive investigation across two distinct agroclimatic conditions. The main variations were monthly rainfall (mm), accentuating diverse agroclimatic dynamics. Surprisingly, an analysis comparing low rainfall (1-4 mm) to moderate rainfall (14-21 mm) periods did not affect fruit fly populations. Contrary to conventional assumptions, variations in only precipitation did not significantly impact fruit fly population dynamics. The critical factors were the dominant role of host plant availability and the efficacy of pest management practices in steering population trends. This study showed that climatic factors contribute to pest dynamics; however, they might not function as a single change factor. Instead, host plant availability and the implementation of effective pest control interventions held more significant influence. Based on the interconnected relationship between climate and pests, amid a continuously developing climate scenario, more careful management strategies are needed to increase the sustainability of citrus yields for food security and farmer welfare.