01 Oca 2026 Perşembe
First report of Acanthiophilus helianthi (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae) infestation in Safflower Fields of Elazığ: Damage levels and resistance insights
Abstract : This study investigated the infestation rates of the safflower fly Acanthiophilus helianthi (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae) on three safflower varieties Zirkon, Dinçer, and wild typescultivated under the ecological conditions of Elazığ province, Türkiye. Field trials were carried out between April and August 2025 at the Fırat University Agricultural Research Center. A total of 100 flower heads from each variety were randomly sampled and examined for pest damage. Results showed infestation rates of 61% in Zirkon, 51% in Dinçer, and 65% in wild safflower. The pest was especially active during the flowering and capitulum formation stages, where larval feeding disrupted seed development and caused significant yield losses. Notably, Dinçer showed relatively lower infestation, suggesting potential varietal resistance. Conversely, the high susceptibility of wild safflower may reflect a lack of natural resistance, though it also presents opportunities for genetic improvement. Based on findings, integrated pest management (IPM) strategies including varietal selection, cultural practices, and exploration of biological control agents are recommended. These findings mark the first recorded observation of this pest in safflower fields in Elazığ, emphasizing the need for long-term regional monitoring and control efforts.