Dacus ciliatus, also known as the cucurbit fruit fly, was detected for the first time in European Union territory in June 2024, following its identification in cucumber crops in Cyprus. Surveys carried out by the Cypriot plant health authorities revealed several hotspots along the southern coast of the island, with infestations confirmed in cucumber, zucchini, watermelon and melon.
In July of the same year, Italy reported two isolated captures in Palma Campania in the province of Naples. The insects were detected in methyl eugenol baited traps that are part of the National Action Plan against Bactrocera dorsalis. One trap was located near a warehouse that imports pumpkins from South Africa, which supports the hypothesis of an accidental introduction linked to horticultural trade.
The pest remains established in Cyprus, where official inspections continue across the island. The infested area now covers 12.03 hectares, almost double the surface recorded in 2024, and includes greenhouses as well as small open field plots. Sixteen new affected zones have been identified, demonstrating the strong dispersal capacity of the species, which has now reached previously unaffected localities such as Nicosia in the northern part of the island and Limassol. Containment and eradication measures remain fully active.
In Italy, the findings are still considered isolated events.
Across the Mediterranean, Syria and Tunisia reported new detections in 2025. Farmers in the coastal region of Latakia in Syria have reported severe cucurbit damage since 2023. In Tunisia, the pest was first detected in 2020 in the Nabeul region and later in other cucurbit crops, and it is now established in the country.
Dacus ciliatus is listed as an A2 pest by the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization and originates from the African continent. It is highly polyphagous, with key hosts in the cucurbit family including cucumber, melon, pumpkin, zucchini and watermelon.
The pest spreads mainly through the movement of infested fruits and vegetables to new destinations, although natural dispersal over several kilometers cannot be ruled out.
Given that the pest is already present in nearby countries, that climate is not a limiting factor, and that host crops are widespread, the risk of establishment is considered very high. This could result in significant environmental and socioeconomic impact.
Source: juntadeandalucia.es
