Measures to Control Black Fly in Orange Crop

Black flies, also known as buffalo gnats or turkey gnats, are tiny, humpbacked flies belonging to the family Simuliidae. There are over 2,200 species of black flies found worldwide, but only a small number of them are known to bite humans and animals. Only female black flies bite, and they need a blood meal to develop their eggs. They use their sharp mouthparts to pierce the skin and feed on blood. Their bites can be painful and itchy, and they can also cause allergic reactions in some people.

• Type of Infestation: Pest
• Common Name: Black Fly
• Causal Organism: Aleurocanthus woglumi 
• Affected Parts Of the plant: Leaves

Identification:

•  Thorax: Look for the characteristic "humpback" shape on the thorax (chest segment).
• Eyes: Black flies have large, compound eyes, often occupying a significant portion of the head.
• Wings: Their wings are clear and fan-shaped, sometimes with darker veins or spots.
• Mouthparts: The mouthparts are short and adapted for piercing and sucking blood.
• Legs: Stout legs with small claws for gripping surfaces.

Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:

• Warm temperatures: Most black fly species thrive in warm weather, with optimal temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
• High humidity: Moderate to high humidity (50-80%) provides a favorable environment for black fly reproduction and survival.

Symptoms of Pest/Disease:

• Honeydew: This sticky, sugary substance is excreted by the flies and readily attracts ants and sooty mold. Look for a sticky film on leaves, stems, and fruits.
• Sooty mold: This black, fungal growth thrives on the honeydew, covering leaves and potentially blocking sunlight, hindering photosynthesis.
• Leaf yellowing: As blackflies suck sap from leaves, they cause yellowing, stunting, and curling. In severe cases, leaves may drop prematurely.
• Fruit damage: Honeydew and sooty mold can blacken fruit, reducing its marketability and quality. Fruit may also develop black spots or blemishes due to direct feeding.
• Presence of blackflies: Look for small, dark-colored (slate blue) winged insects, primarily on the undersides of leaves.

Measures to control Pests/Diseases: