Environmentally induced changes on tephritid fly behavior and physiology and their implications for management

Abstract

We review literature on the interaction of the environment and the behavior/ecology of tephritid flies and dwell on how this knowledge can be used in their environmentally friendly management. We draw some examples from other insects, as it can serve as a roadmap for future research on fruit flies. We touch on barometric pressure, hormesis, epigenetics, cross-protection interactions, plasticity, chemoreception, host plant relationships, and gut microbiota; on the influence global change/warming is having in geographic and host range expansion; and on the physiological mechanisms flies use to cope with environmental stresses such as desiccation or heat/cold.

Topics & Concepts