The developing larvae feed on the flesh, rendering the fruit inedible. Many types of moth larvae or caterpillars also chew externally on fruit, leaving exposed flesh that is susceptible to rot and moisture loss. Listed below are some of the pests that feed on Long Island tree fruit. There are also several important mite and leafminer pests, and other pests that feed on foliage. Internal Fruit Feeders Apple maggot Adult flies, found mid-June through August, are black with white crossbands on their abdomens.
Wings are clear and have characteristic black bands.
After mating, females oviposit just beneath the skin of the apple. The resulting larvae is cream colored with 2 black mouth hooks. The larvae tunnel throughout the fruit, leaving behind threadlike trails that enlarge from bacterial decay. On the surface, the fruit may appear dimpled or distorted, eventually becoming soft and rotten. Early varieties and varieties that are soft are more affected by apple maggot.