Coquimbo tests digital technology to improve fruit fly monitoring

A public-private partnership between the Regional Government of Coquimbo and the Fruit Development Foundation (FDF) is advancing new technology aimed at strengthening fruit fly detection and outbreak management in northern Chile.

The project seeks to modernize the supervision of fruit fly traps and help the Agricultural and Livestock Service respond faster to possible detections. The system adds a digital layer through a web platform, georeferenced information and cellular communication, allowing supervisors to follow inspections in real time, receive alerts, view updated maps and access photographic reports.

Pilot work is being carried out in the provinces of Elqui and Limarí, covering more than 1,200 traps. These include traps from the regular monitoring system, usually checked every 7 to 14 days, and campaign traps, which are reviewed almost twice a week.

The technology was presented during a transfer session attended by regional SAG professionals and local fruit growers. The meeting also covered current prevention measures, pest characteristics, research and training tools, and chemical control options.

Fruit fly is a quarantine pest, meaning outbreaks can trigger containment and eradication measures, including quarantine zones, fruit removal, chemical or mechanical controls, and restrictions aimed at protecting export markets.

The initiative seeks to improve early detection, speed up decision-making and support Coquimbo’s sanitary strategy before outbreaks spread to wider fruit-producing areas.

source and photo: frutasdechile.cl