Priority host plants of the Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni (Froggatt), based on the host reproduction number for tephritid management, surveillance and trade

The Host Reproduction Number (HRN) is a measure of the number of adult fruit flies that can emerge from one kilogram of fruit. HRN is a useful tool in surveillance, management and trade. I reviewed the literature for Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) and found data on 297 hosts. There were 81 Qfly hosts with HRN data and 216 Qfly hosts with no HRN data. The HRN will help to inform and triage hosts for target surveillance and management programs. Additionally, HRN will inform disinfestation activities pertaining to incursion response management, risk mitigation and trade options. There is a need for scientists to report HRN in a consistent manner so that Qfly management programs and trade protocols might be optimised.

Automated summary

The Host Reproduction Number (HRN) is a useful measure for surveillance, management, and trade of fruit flies. A review of literature on Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) revealed data on 297 hosts, with 81 hosts having HRN data and 216 hosts having no HRN data. HRN can inform target surveillance and management programs, as well as activities related to incursion response management, risk mitigation, and trade options. Consistent reporting of HRN by scientists is necessary for optimizing Qfly management programs and trade protocols.