It is restricted to the Southern island group. Established and maintained a fruit fly rearing laboratory and laboratories for holding fruit samples collected in the field and undertaking heat tolerance studies at Totokoitu Research Station. Established 31 trap sites on five islands of the Cook Islands. Trap sites made up of one trap baited with methyl eugenol and one with Cue-lure. Used this data as the basis for negotiations on quarantine protocols for export of fruits and vegetables.
Cucurbits are free from fruit fly infestation.
Modified the initial fauna surveys into an early warning system as part of Cook Islands' overall quarantine surveillance system. Trapping focused on high-risk locations, such as tourist resorts, urban areas, educational institutions for overseas students, markets, farming areas, diplomatic missions and ports of entry. Developed and adapted laboratory rearing techniques for B. melanotus and B. xanthodes in late 1990, using various artificial diets and egging devices. Papaya-based standard artificial diet was developed in Cook Islands. Completed studies on the life cycles and rates of development of B. melanotus and B. xanthodes in artificial diet and in fruits such as papaya and avocado.