Understanding the barriers affecting false codling moth larval infestation on citrus fruit

Title : Understanding the barriers affecting false codling moth larval infestation on citrus fruit

Abstract:

Citrus represents the largest agricultural export earner for South Africa, with the country considered the leading global exporter of citrus. There is increased pressure from export markets due to quarantine pests. False codling moth (FCM), Thaumatotibia leucotreta, is one of the phytosanitary pests with a quarantine status in export markets such as Europe, the United States of America, and the Far East countries. These markets maintain a strict zero tolerance for any FCM larvae, as it has not yet been established there, hence restricting market access for South African citrus. Research suggests fewer FCM infestations as a result of effective pest control strategies or behavioural and environmental conditions limitations. Behavioural limitations may include larval penetration, oviposition density, oviposition preference and pre-penetration cannibalism. Environmental barriers may include temperature, humidity, sunlight, precipitation, dust, and wind; while biotic factors may involve ant predation present in citrus orchards. However, these factors have not been investigated, thus creating a broad knowledge gap. This study will mostly concentrate on the larval stage, the most destructive stage of FCM, which has been predominantly neglected in research. Experiments are conducted in the laboratory under controlled environment to mimic orchard conditions, where FCM neonates and adults are subjected to choice (Random placement of fruits in cages) and no-choice tests (Individual fruits in ventilated 1l tubs) on citrus, with 4 treatments (control, 1-week infested, 1week mechanically damaged, mechanically damaged on infestation day). All data analyses will be done using R Software 2026. Understanding the biology of FCM larvae under the diverse conditions will clarify FCM penetration behaviour, penetration probability, and its limitations, thereby facilitating improved pest monitoring and necessitating targeted control measures that will enhance market access and alleviate pressure on the citrus sector in South Africa.

Biography:

Mmabatho Peggy Moifo is a Plant Production graduate (Diploma, Btech and Honours), with 4 years of both farming and packhouse experience, working on various fruits .Her Honours research focused on Influence of pre-harvest bagging on maturity and postharvest quality of cherry tomato. She is a current MSc in Entomology Student conducting research on one of the phytosanitary pests of citrus called false codling moth, with the aim of understanding various behavioral, abiotic, and biotic factors limiting false codling moth infestation on citrus fruit. She has consistently demonstrated professionalism, enthusiasm, and the ability to work independently on this scientifically important project.