Rabat, June 14 -- The International Atomic Energy Agency ( IAEA ) reports that the Mediterranean fruit fly, sometimes referred to as the "medfly," is threatening Morocco's economy.

The Mediterranean fruit fly is a pest species that threatens the growth and success of the citrus fruit industry , which plays a significant role in Morocco's economy. The production of citrus fruit employs over 13,000 farmers and produces exports of $300 million per year.

Miklos Gaspar, writing the new report for the IAEA , elaborates on the harm that the animal has caused to Morocco's economy: "As medflies have made their home in Morocco's citrus orchards and farms, the volume of the country's citrus exports has been reduced due to direct damage to fruit an...