Pestfly Patrol
Project title
Pestfly Patrol
Citizen-led monitoring action of the Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) in Belgium
Location
Belgium
Duration
June 2026 – August 2026
Exotic fruits sometimes carry stowaways
The Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) enters Belgium mainly through the import of infested exotic fruits, such as mangoes or guavas. The larvae can develop in other fruits, causing significant economic damage. It was first detected in Belgium in August 2023, at the Zaterdagmarkt in Antwerp. The citizen science project Pestfly Patrol aims to prevent its entry into the EU via Belgian trade, or its spread from other European countries.
Who can participate?
Anyone with access to a compost heap.
When?
The monitoring campaign by citizens will take place in summer 2026. Registrations will open in spring 2026.
Where?
Across Belgium.
How to participate?
1. Subscribe to our newsletter to be notified when the project launches in 2026.
2. Order and receive your Oriental fruit fly observation kit in 2026.
3. Set up the trap next to your compost for three months and check it once a week.
4. Install the iNaturalist app and submit your weekly observations.
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