Research and IPM

Phenology Model Database

Melon Fly

Scientific name: Dacus cucurbitae

Phenology models predict timing of events in an organism's development. For many organisms which cannot internally regulate their own temperature, development is dependent on temperatures to which they are exposed in the environment.

Note: Before using a model that was not field tested in your location, you should test the model for one or more seasons under your conditions to verify that it will work for you.

Model 1 of 2

Keck, C. B. 1951. Effect of temperature on development and activity of the melon fly. J. Econ. Entomol. 44: 1001-1002.

Location of study: Honolulu, Hawaii (laboratory studies)

Developmental threshold

Lower:

46.5°F

(8.1°C)

Method of calculation: not specified (UC IPM recommends Single Sine)

Degree-day accumulations required for each stage of development

Host: Tomato	DD (°F)	DD (°C)
Eggs:	38.1	21.2
Larvae:	183.1	101.7
Pupae:	unknown
Pre-egglaying adults:	494.9	274.9

Model 2 of 2

Messenger, P. S., and N. E. Flitters. 1958. Effect of constant temperature environments on the egg stage of three species of Hawaiian fruit flies. Ann. Ent. Soc. Amer. 51: 109-119.

Location of study: Honolulu, Hawaii (laboratory studies)

Developmental thresholds

Lower:	52.5°F	(11.4°C)
Upper:	97.5°F	(36.4°C)

Method of calculation:	not specified (UC IPM recommends Single Sine)
Cutoff method:	not specified (UC IPM recommends Vertical)

Degree-day accumulations required for each stage of development

	DD (°F)	DD (°C)
Eggs:	26.7	14.8