The average life-history of D. dorsalis, Hendel under laboratory conditions (25°C ±2) on papaya thinning was found to be 22 days. The three larval stages could be distinguished by the relative lengths and characteristics of cephalopharyngeal skeletons and spiracles. The adult displayed sexual dimorphism on the wing margin (Cu1 + 1A). Field studies showed that the female oviposits both on green and red chilli fruits. The earlier infestation began when the fruits were three weeks old.