author(s)
Madeleine Ivonne Mendy, Toffène Diome, Mamecor Faye and Mbacké Sembene

abstract
Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Diptera: Tephritidae) is a major pest of cucurbit crops, and its laboratory rearing typically relies on expensive methods requiring artificial diets and specialized infrastructure. In resource-limited settings, these requirements represent a substantial barrier to establishing stable colonies, which are nevertheless essential for bioecological studies and integrated pest management programs. This study describes a simple, low-cost, and reproducible rearing technique adapted to local conditions in Senegal. Naturally infested watermelon fruits were collected and incubated at ambient temperature (26-32 °C), relative humidity of 47-72%, and a 12L: 12D photoperiod. Larvae developed within the fruit pulp and subsequently pupated in a sterilized sand substrate. Pupae were collected daily, incubated in ventilated containers, and monitored until adult emergence. Adults were maintained in simple cages and provided with a diet consisting of watermelon juice, sugar, water, and yeast. Oviposition was induced by offering pieces of fresh watermelon, enabling the production of a new generation without the need for artificial diets. This method provides a reliable and easily implementable alternative for maintaining Z. cucurbitae colonies in the laboratory, thereby supporting entomological research and the assessment of sustainable management strategies.