Advice for Olive Growers on Protecting Against Olive Fruit Fly

Olive trees are currently in the fruit growth phenophase, and relevant institutions regularly monitor the flight and presence of the olive fruit fly (Bactrocera oleae) using yellow sticky traps, pheromone traps, and fruit sampling. Based on inspection reports of traps and fruits provided by the Biotechnical Faculty of the University of Montenegro, active infestation was confirmed at certain sites. At the Bar 1 site, an infestation of 6.6% (eggs and first-stage larvae – L1) was recorded; at Bar 3, an infestation of 10% (eggs, L1, and pupae in equal proportions); and at Valdanos 1, an infestation of 13.3% (eggs, second- and third-stage larvae – L2 and L3 in equal proportions). It is recommended to treat the entire canopy with a flupyridifurone-based product (Sivanto Prime), preferably in late evening hours when air temperature is below 25°C. As an alternative for controlling adult olive fruit flies in locations where infestation is low or not detected, the application of Success Bait, based on spinosad with an attractant, is advised to attract and trap adults. When applying plant protection products, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and label data, ensure proper disposal of packaging waste, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and consider the pre-harvest interval when performing other agronomic measures in olive groves.