Evaluation of a Sugarcane Bagasse Larval Diet for Mass Production of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Hawaii

Abstract

Plans for increased production of the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), in Hawaii have renewed interest in alternative bulking compounds for larval diets. Of particular interest has been the use of sugarcane bagasse because of its local availability. Studies of a sugarcane bagasse diet were conducted at mass production levels where metabolic heat, desiccation, and larval behavior are critical factors affecting recovery of high-quality pupae. Replicated tests indicated recoveries of large numbers of high-quality pupae. No significant differences were found in pupal weight, eclosion, fecundity, or fertility between larvae reared on the sugarcane bagasse diet and those reared on the standard mill feed diet. No decrease in recovery, fecundity, or fertility was noted due to consecutive generations reared on the diet.