Melon fly
- Pronunciation
- /MEL-on FLY/
- Category
- Entomology
- Singular
- Melon fly
- Plural
- Melon flies
Definition
A species of fruit fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae, known for its infestation of various cucurbit crops.
Etymology
The name refers to the insect's primary host plants, the melon family (Cucurbitaceae).
Example
Melon fly larvae develop in blossoms and fruits of melons, causing significant agricultural damage.