Laboratory evaluation of the effects of different concentrations of calcined kaolin applied on orange fruits on the behaviour of Ceratitis capitata

Abstract

The Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera Tephritidae), is one of the most devastating agricultural pests worldwide. The kaolin particle film has been demonstrated to effectively control C. capitata on several crops although several studies have proved that kaolin treatments may alter the agroecosystem entomofauna, and specifically in citrus crops. The aim of this work was to study, under laboratory conditions, the efficacy of different kaolin particle film concentrations (1.5%, 2.5%, 3%, 5% and 6% w/v) applied on orange fruits cv “Valencia Late” to optimize its use against C. capitata in citrus groves. We assessed the effect of different kaolin particle film concentrations on the fruit acceptance, repellence, behavioural response, and efficacy fruit infestation. Through all the specific approaches, the 2.5% kaolin treatments applied in two layers successfully reduced the fruit infestation by C. capitata. This processed kaolin treatment should offer efficacy in real field conditions as satisfactory as conventional pesticides towards high populations.