Distribution, population density, and fruit injury of the mediterranean fruit fly (ceratitis capitata (wiedemann); diptera: tephritidae) in Artvin province

Turkey's diverse climate types and extensive agricultural areas suitable for many cultivated plants create conditions that facilitate the spread of pest species and the occurrence of economic damage. The Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata) (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is among the most important of these pests: a polyphagous species that causes serious worldwide economic losses, particularly in citrus but also in many other fruits. With its ecological conditions and host-fruit diversity, Artvin Province represents a potential area for the pest's establishment and spread. This study aimed to determine the distribution of C. capitata in Artvin, its population density, and the characteristic symptoms of fruit injury. The research was conducted in 2023 and 2024 across eight districts of Artvin using delta-type pheromone traps. Traps were deployed each year in March and inspected weekly until the end of December. To assess population density, captured adults were counted, and in surveyed areas the symptoms of fruit injury were recorded. According to the results, the pest was detected only within the boundaries of the Central District; no populations were recorded in the other districts. In 2023 the first adults were observed in August, and population density reached its highest level in November. In 2024, although the season again began in August, a marked increase in population density occurred in September. On fruit, oviposition punctures, browning due to larval feeding, decay, and signs of secondary fungal infection were observed. In conclusion, C. capitata currently exhibits a limited distribution in Artvin; however, its population density can rise rapidly under favorable climatic conditions. Keywords: Ceratitis capitata, Artvin, Mediterranean fruit fly, Population density, Injury symptoms.