Larval Parasitoids Associated to Anastrepha Distincta (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Two Host Fruits at the Soconusco Region, Chiapas, Mexico (Report‪)‬

Anastrepha distincta Greene (Diptera: Tephritidae) is considered a pest of secondary importance in Mexico because it is only associated with non-commercial fruits in the Inga genus (Fabaceae) (Norrbom & Kim 1988; Malo et al. 1987; Celedonio-Hurtado et al. 1995). However, there are reports of A. distincta infesting economically important fruits such as oranges (Citrus sinensis L.) and mangoes (Mangifera indica L.) (Norrbom & Kim 1988). During the last few years biological control of fruit flies has emerged as an alternative to synthetic insecticides (Ovruski et al. 2000). Therefore, it is important to determine the potential of parasitoids in regulating populations of various species of fruit flies under field conditions (Figueroa 1998; Ovruski et al. 2000; Montoya et al. 2000). The first step in developing a biological control program is an inventory of native parasitoids. Practical issues, such as which species are most suitable for mass rearing, might eventually be taken into account (Ovruski et al. 2000; Montoya & Liedo 2000).