The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) has confirmed the detection of the fruit fly species Bactrocera facialis in the country, marking its first recorded presence.
Native to Tonga, this species is classified as exotic and poses a threat to Fiji's agriculture. According to BAF, the fruit fly was initially identified during routine surveillance on Nanuya Island in the Yasawa Group. Follow-up delimiting surveys and mass trapping confirmed its presence on three additional islands: Naukacuvu, Narara, and Vomo.
Bactrocera facialis is a polyphagous fruit fly species, feeding on a wide range of host plants. Crops at risk include breadfruit, mango, kavika, avocado, guava, chillies, capsicum, and papaya. The pest damages fruit by laying eggs inside it. The larvae hatch and feed within the flesh, causing internal decay and softening. Externally, infested fruit may show sting marks, discoloration, water-soaked areas, and premature fruit drop, rendering it unsuitable for sale or consumption.
Fiji already hosts native fruit fly species that cause similar issues, but the introduction of Bactrocera facialis increases the biosecurity challenge, according to a statement from BAF.
BAF, working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, has activated its Plant Pest Emergency Response Action Plan. The authority has urged travelers not to transport fruits from infested islands to other parts of Fiji.
Farmers and the public have been advised to monitor orchards and gardens closely and to report any suspected fruit fly activity to local biosecurity officers.
Source: Fiji Sun
