It was discovered in Solomon Islands in 1984, and is now widespread in all provinces, except Makira, Rennell-Bellona and Temotu. Over 125 species of hosts have been recorded for this species, based on extensive host surveys in Asia and Hawai'i. Plants in the family Cucurbitaceae are, however, the usual hosts. Nine species of cucurbit hosts have been recorded in the Pacific. There are numerous records from other plant families, many requiring confirmation.
Adults mate at dusk.
Female flies start laying eggs 11-12 days after their emergence from pupae. Females lay eggs primarily on cucurbits, but can infest a wide range of other fruits and fleshy vegetables. Over 125 hosts have been recorded in Hawaii. Eggs are laid in batches of 1-40 eggs in young to ripe fruits, but also on flowers, buds and even leaf stalks and stems of host cucurbits. One female may lay over 1000 eggs during her life.