My Masters project is entitled, “Foraging patterns for protein by South African fruit fly pests”.

The study aimed to improve the application of protein baits, an essential component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). This involved the release of fruit fly pests within the field cages, systematically examining their responses. The study evaluated the role played by the interplay of factors linked to the physiological state such as fly age, sex, nutritional status, the strategic positioning of protein baits at varying heights in the canopy and the role played by environmental conditions in influencing fruit fly responsiveness to the applied baits.

In addition, the response of fruit flies to protein baits applied at different densities was also evaluated.

The end result was that the citrus industry which funded the work got definitive recommendations on how to best place the lure in order to enhance fruit fly attraction.

Moreover, the project encompassed laboratory-based experiments, specifically nutrient assays, to assess the impact of protein and lipid body composition on the fruit fly responsiveness to baits deployed in the field.