The Invader fly (Bactrocera invadens) is native to Southeast Asia and in recent years has rapidly spread throughout most of the African continent. The pest is not found in the Canary Islands.
This fly is highly invasive, polyphagous and has a high reproductive power. More than 80 plant species are attacked by it, with serious damages being caused. This includes mango, guava, cherimoya, grapefruit, orange, watermelon, melon, papaya, cucumber, kumquat, avocado, banana and other tropical and temperate fruits, which can be affected either when green or ripe.
The adult has an average size of 5 to 7 mm, with variable colour thorax, ranging from red-brown to black with lateral yellow stripes to transparent. The female has a visible abdominal extension which it uses to deposit eggs inside the fruit. Its life cycle is similar to that of fruit flies (Ceratitis capitata).
Once the eggs have been deposited, larvae emerge to feed on the pulp. These larvae, when at the end of their development, leave the fruit and drop to the ground, where they bury themselves a few inches deep in order to pupate. Pupae of these new adults emerge and a new cycle begins.
This pest requires quarantine, which means that a territory affected by it would not be allowed to export to countries where the insect is not found. It is worth remembering that the pest can attack bananas.
The introduction of the insect into the Canary Islands could occur through the import of fruit affected by it, so controls at ports and airports are essential. Furthermore, early detection can facilitate the success of eradication programs.