The Government presents the first comprehensive study on the carob and caper midge in Mallorca

The Institute of Agri-food and Fisheries Research and Training of the Balearic Islands (IRFAP), an agency under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment, has presented today the book containing the first complete study carried out in Mallorca on the carob and caper midge (Asphondylia gennadii). The work, written by the renowned researcher Joan Rallo i Garcia—this year awarded the Ramon Llull Prize by the Government of the Balearic Islands for his scientific contributions—has been published with the collaboration of IRFAP.

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment, Joan Simonet, attended the event and wished to highlight the achievements and professional career of Joan Rallo. “His experience is remarkable and his work is admirable. He is an example of commitment to a primary sector that needs more research and more innovation,” he stated.

The study documents for the first time the presence, biology and life cycle of the midge on the island, as well as the host plants it uses, the damage it causes to carob and caper trees, and its interaction with other species, such as the caper fly (Capparimyia savastani). In addition, the associated symbiotic fungus and several parasitoids have been identified—organisms that may play a key role in the biological control of this pest. In this regard, the author acknowledged that the research began by chance, when he decided to plant hermaphrodite carob seeds on his farm. “One day I noticed that the leaves were pitted. I sent samples to the Ministry, and the laboratory confirmed the presence of an insect and three parasitoids.” That is how the study started.

According to the publication, the midge Asphondylia gennadii is an emerging pest in the Balearic Islands, affecting carob and caper trees. The results highlight the need to continue researching its biological cycle, distribution and potential management measures—especially in the context of climate change, which may affect the flowering and fruiting patterns of host plants, and considering the presence of invasive species that may compete with the midge or alter the ecological balance of carob and caper ecosystems.