Blueberry Maggot, Rhagoletis mendax Curran

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the blueberry maggot, Rhagoletis mendax Curran, a significant pest of commercially grown blueberries. It covers the pest's introduction, distribution, taxonomy, description, host plants, life history, and control methods. The blueberry maggot is found primarily in the northeastern and north central United States and Canada, with recent infestations in the southeastern United States. Effective monitoring and control strategies are essential to manage this pest and protect blueberry crops. First published: July 1998.