Effects of neem leaf dust and a commercial formulation of a neem compound on the longevity, fecundity and ovarian development of the melon fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) and the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae).

Neem leaf dust and a commercial formulation of neem were tested on adult Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) and Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) to determine their effects on the longevity, fecundity and ovarian development. Different combinations of neem leaf dust and a commercial formulation of a neem compound incorporated with sugar solution and adult rearing diets were tested. The Laboratory tests showed that ingestion of neem can significantly reduced the longevity and fertility of both the fly species. Significantly fewer pupae were collected from adults fed on laboratory rearing diet and nimbicidine as water source. Effect of neem treatment on the pupation and subsequent adult emergence of late-instar larvae was negligible. Microscopic observation indicated that the decreased fecundity was due to the block of ovarian development. Experimental results confirmed that neem can be effectively used as a safe alternative insecticide for the control of Bactrocera species.