Models to predict infestation of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) in guava (Psidium guajava L.)

Guava, Psidium guajava L. is an important fruit crop of India. Being one of the preferred hosts of the fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), it is at a high risk of loss. Though the pest is serious, its attack varies with season and region. For need based interventions, models are required. Studies were conducted in 2009 and 2010 at Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore. In both the years the infestation in second harvest could explain the variability in total infestation to the extent of 86% and 73% respectively. IPM strategies can be decided from the second harvest infestation, thus obviating loss by > 95% in the subsequent 3-12 harvests.