Maggots in South Florida Peaches: Fruit Fly Species Need Lab Identification

A peach tree in South Florida yielded fruit half-infested with maggots. The Mediterranean fruit fly is officially eradicated but could be reintroduced. Numerous fruit fly species thrive in subtropical climates.

Action: Place infested fruit in a screened cage; rear adults to emergence; take specimens to the University of Florida Entomology Department for species ID. This determines the exact pest and legal control options.

Don't assume it's medfly—accurate ID is critical for management and regulatory compliance.