Fruit flies and heliothis are major pests of tomatoes, capsicums, melons, and other vegetables. Integrated pest management systems with less dependence on disruptive insecticides are needed for their management. This project investigated several aspects of the management of fruit flies and heliothis in these crops.

Tomatoes and capsicums must be free from fruit fly, particularly for some export markets. Protein baits, known to be effective in controlling fruit flies in some tree crops and that have no adverse effects on beneficial insects, were tested in tomatoes and capsicums. Unfortunately their effectiveness was not demonstrated because of difficulties in conduction the trials but positive and useful information was gathered. Protein baits should be effective in vegetables and studies using alternative techniques are needed to demonstrate their effectiveness.

Surveys of commercial capsicum crops demonstrated the importance of fruit flies, with up to 40% of fruit infested.

The project tested biopesticides and new insecticides against heliothis on tomatoes, capsicums, zucchinis, and melons, and contributed to the registration of several insecticides more compatible with IPM systems on tomatoes and capsicums.

Trials of a heliothis specific virus product showed it has some effectiveness and that it may have a role when pest pressure is low. Biassays and a field trial showed that the control of heliothis using biopesticides was not improved when an additive was included with the spray.

Heliothis eggs were found mainly on the leaves near the tops of tomato and capsicum plants, on the lower surface of zucchini leaves, and on melon leaves near the tips of runners. This knowledge will improve monitoring procedures and targeting of insecticide sprays for heliothis on these crops.

Managing vegetable pests using IPM systems requires on-going continual research and development. Protein baiting systems for fruit fly must be established and demonstrated. Studies on the management of heliothis in vegetables must continue and its management must be integrated with IPM programs for other pests in the crops. Each crop is different and specific programs are needed for specific crops.