Published: 19 Apr 2021 1,448 views
Application of protein baits in the form of sprays or stations forms the core of fruit fly control measures in citrus and other fruit orchards. Recommendations on application, distribution and amount of protein bait are based on general patterns of behaviour of a few fruit fly species. However, fruit fly species respond differently to protein bait, which may be because of different protein requirements (resulting in different responses to baits with different protein contents) and variation in rates of reproductive maturation.
Higher volumes of bait spray are recommended for bigger tree canopies, which leads to the question of whether more bait units per area is better for fruit fly population suppression. This project will establish the interacting roles of protein bait location, application density and fruit fly physiological state on response by Ceratitis capitata, Ceratitis cosyra and Bactrocera dorsalis.
The project is based in the Department of Zoology and Entomology at the University of Pretoria under the
supervision of Prof. Chris Weldon and Dr Aruna Manrakhan (Citrus Research International).
The University of Pretoria (UP) was established in 1908 with just four professors and 32 students, in a little house called Kya Rosa. Today, it is one of the largest research universities in South Africa. UP has transformed into a dynamic university community of staff and students who come from a range of diverse backgrounds and cultures showcasing South African and global societies. The University was born from a vision to create a space for quality education and for new ideas to flourish. Over the course of its existence, and through different phases of political power and social change, UP ... continue reading
Application Deadline | 30 Apr 2021 |
Country to study | South Africa |
Type | Masters |
Sponsor | University of Pretoria |
Gender | Men and Women |
The project is offered on a full-time basis only. The MSc candidate must begin the project before the end of June 2021 and submit the dissertation for examination by the end of 2022. A generous bursary is available to reimburse registration and tuition fees, and cover living expenses. Research costs will also be covered.
For more details, visit University of Pretoria website.