Cherry fruit fly
Rhagoletis cingulata
Profile
The Eastern American cherry fruit fly(Rhagoletis cingulata) is an important non-native pest of the true fruit fly family (Tephritidae). Somewhat later in the season than the native European cherry fruit fly(Rhagoletis cerasi), this species occurs as a pest on sweet cherry, and possibly also on sour cherry. The larvae (maggots) feeding in the fruit destroy the pulp and make the fruit inedible.
Appearance
The adults are 4 to 5 mm long and have transparent wings marred by dark bands. A striking feature is the pale yellow dorsal shield set against an otherwise glossy black body. Experts can distinguish the Eastern American cherry fruit fly from the native species by the details of the wing markings.
The headless and legless larvae (maggots) are white to cream-coloured and up to 6 mm long.
Biology
The biology of the Eastern American cherry fruit fly is essentially the same as that of the native European cherry fruit fly. Females lay eggs singly under the fruit skin. After about three to seven days, the larvae hatch and feed inside the fruit for two to five weeks after which they leave the fruit as adult larvae to pupate in the soil. They overwinter there until the next spring, as only one generation is produced each year. While the native species begins hatching around May, it has been observed for the American species, for example in Germany, that hatching is delayed (about three to four weeks). The adult life span is about one to two months.
Distribution
The dispersal of this species can be passive or active. Active spread occurs through the flight of adults over short distances. However, the most important mode of dispersal is by means of infested fruit (merchandise, travelers' luggage) carried to previously uninfested areas.
The Eastern American cherry fruit fly is native to eastern and southern North America and arrived in Europe a few decades ago. It has been able to establish itself here and more recently, after the first detection for Austria in 2007, has been detected in a number of federal states with low numbers of catches.
Prevention and control
It can be assumed that the measures for prevention and control against the domestic cherry fruit fly will also be effective against this species. The somewhat later appearance of the American species should be noted, which makes, for example, the choice of variety (early varieties are less infested) even more relevant.
Phytosanitary status
Due to the widespread occurrence of this species in Europe, it is no longer classified as a quarantine pest within the EU. Its presence is therefore not subject to mandatory reporting. The EPPO lists it on the A2 list (= pests locally present in the EPPO region; control recommended).
It should be noted, however, that the Eastern American cherry fruit fly (R. cingulata) can only be distinguished from the Western American cherry fruit fly (R. indifferens) – which has not yet been recorded in Europe and is classified as a Union quarantine pest – can only be distinguished by experts.
Technical information
Research
AGES continuously monitors the occurrence of these and other species of fruit flies as part of its surveys, in cooperation with the official plant protection services.
Publications
Egartner, A., Zeisner, Z., Hausdorf, H., Blümel, S., 2010. First record of Rhagoletis cingulata (Loew) (Dipt., Tephritidae) in Austria. EPPO Bulletin 40, 158–162.
Last updated: 28.09.2026
automatically translated