Usage of agricultural DAP-fertilizer and Eucalyptus essential oils as potential attractants against the mediterranean fruit fly Ceratitis capitata (Tephritidae)

tilizers. Moreover, in oasis Ceratitis capitata is a major pest. Its control relied on synthetic pesticides. This work aims to assess the efficiency of the two formulations based on the combination of DAP and Eucalyptus essential oils. X-Ray Diffraction and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area were used to characterize DAP fertilizer. GC-MS analysis were performed for analyze oils composition and adsorption of oil compounds. Kinetics adsorption/ desorption was determined by measuring the mass of solid samples over time. Repellent/attractant and contact toxicity tests of Eucalyptus cinerea and E. maidenii oils and their formulations were evaluated against Medfly adults. GC-MS analysis indicated that 1,8-cineole was the dominant major common compound (E. cinerea: 74.58%, E. maidenii 66.70%). Moreover, the adsorption efficacy depends on the abundance of each compound in crude essential oils and the polarity of terpenic components. Indeed, percentage of 1,8-cineole adsorption in the formulation was 76.15%for E. cinerea and 65.24% for E. maidenii. Results indicated the attractant potential of both essential oils (class III) and that DAP/essential oils formulations accomplished better attractant performance (class IV). Besides, formulations were toxic towards C. capitata adults (80% and 100% mortality for E. cinerea and E. maidenii). Results pointed out that the commercial lure Ceratrap (R), traps baited with DAP/E. maidenii and DAP/E. cinerea formulations were attractant against C. capitata adults under field conditions. This work supports the use of essential oils and fertilizers-based formulations as an innovative tool for the management of Medfly.

Automated summary

This study evaluated the effectiveness of two formulations based on DAP and Eucalyptus essential oils for controlling Mediterranean fruit fly, showing their good attractant potential and toxicity towards the pest. The results support the use of essential oils and fertilizer-based formulations as an innovative tool for pest management.