Carrot Rust Fly

Catalogue Type
Plant Pests Catalogue
Scientific Name
Chamepsila rosae
Family
Psilidae
Distinguishing Characters
The rust fly maggots are tiny and reach only 1/3 inch long.
They are yellowish-white and pupate in a month. The brown pupae stay near the roots until they become adults.
Host Crop
Carrot
Order
Diptera
Photo of Insect
Photo of Damaged Crop
Description

The maggots of the Carrot Rust Fly damage plants by eating the small fibrous roots and by tunneling in larger roots.

A rust-colored material develops in the tunnels, giving the insect its name.
Affected plants may become yellow, stunted, and die. Usually the plant tops continue to look healthy.

Maggots often continue to feed in stored carrots.

Disease organisms may enter the feeding tunnels and cause them to rot.

Neem has proven effective against this pest.