Completed project
An analysis of fruitspotting bug activity in avocado crops from fruit-set to harvest (AV11021)
Publication date: March 30, 2016
Delivery Partner: The University of Queensland
This project investigated the ecology and behaviour of banana-spotting bug (Amblypelta lutescens lutescens) in avocado crops and the potential of using pheromone traps to improve pest management.
It also looked at the suitability of avocado, lime and papaya crops as host plants for the bug. The banana-spotting bug is an important insect pest of avocados in Queensland that results in economic loss through premature fruit drop, control costs, and damage to fruit that renders it unmarketable.
The pest is controlled by regular applications of broad spectrum synthetic pyrethroid and organophosphate insecticides.
The project made several new findings…
The researchers recommended that growers…
This project was a strategic levy investment in the Hort Innovation Avocado Fund
© 2026 Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited.
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