Life Table Parameters and Age-Specific Fecundity of Bactrocera oleae (Diptera: Tephritidae) on Olive Fruit

Abstract

Population growth and reproductive potential of Bactrocera oleae were evaluated under controlled laboratory conditions using olive fruits as the primary host substrate to better understand the pest’s demographic characteristics and invasion capacity. Developmental duration, survival rate, adult longevity, fecundity, and age-specific fertility parameters were assessed across the complete life cycle of the insect. Females deposited eggs beneath the olive fruit epidermis, and larval feeding within fruit tissues caused extensive internal damage and premature fruit deterioration. Developmental time from egg to adult emergence varied according to host condition and environmental factors, while survival rates remained relatively high under moderate temperature and humidity conditions. Female adults lived longer than males and exhibited peak oviposition during the early reproductive phase, followed by gradual decline in egg production with increasing age. Age-specific survival and fecundity schedules indicated rapid population increase potential under favorable conditions. Life table analysis demonstrated a positive intrinsic rate of increase, high net reproductive rate, and relatively short mean generation time, confirming the strong capacity of B. oleae populations to establish and expand in olive-growing regions. Host quality significantly influenced reproductive performance, adult emergence, and offspring viability. Continuous availability of susceptible olive fruits supported overlapping generations and enhanced pest persistence within orchards. The demographic traits observed in the present investigation highlight the destructive potential of B. oleae and its ability to cause severe economic losses through direct fruit infestation and quality deterioration. Knowledge of life table parameters and reproductive ecology is essential for predicting seasonal population dynamics and improving timing of integrated pest management interventions.