# Field Sampling of Zaprionus indianus in the Eastern United States in 2023-2024

## TL;DR

Researchers surveyed the invasive fruit fly Zaprionus indianus in the eastern U.S. and found no clear patterns in its distribution or seasonal presence.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the seasonal and geographic distribution of Z. indianus in temperate regions.

## Key findings

- Z. indianus showed no latitudinal abundance trends and had a variable northern boundary between years.
- The species was rare in Florida in spring and absent from early-season berries in Virginia.
- Z. indianus was observed on native fruits in a natural area, suggesting local survival in temperate regions.

## Abstract

We conducted surveys for the invasive drosophilid
Zaprionus indianus
in the eastern United States in 2023 and 2024. We found no latitudinal trends in
Z. indianus
abundance, and the northern boundary for
Z. indianus
was variable between years.
Z. indianus
was rare in central and northern Florida in the spring, was not present on early season berry crops in Virginia, and had a restricted temperate growing season compared to other drosophilids, providing further support for the species’ yearly recolonization of temperate areas.
Z. indianus
was also observed on native fruits in a natural area in Virginia.