The unregulated spread of Drosophila suzukii represents a danger especially for small fruits. Chemical interventions are normally used to control this insect, but the use of these synthetic molecules is very often controversial. Essential oils, on the other hand, have been identified as potential bioinsecticides due to their natural origin but also their biodegradability and mode of action.
In previous research, the insecticidal effects of geranium, dill and Scots pine essential oils have been documented through oviposition deterrence, mortality and repellency. It was decided to formulate a combination of these compounds and to evaluate their impact on D. suzukii by comparing their chemical composition, which differs in the percentage of dominant components, and the mode of action that typically results from synergistic effects.
The use of a combination of various essential oils may often prove more advantageous than their individual application, as the synergistic effect of the combination of essential oils may broaden the range of pests that can be affected, thus improving their overall effectiveness. This is due to the fact that different essential oils can affect different aspects of an insect's biology or behaviour.
Despite the potential use of essential oils in agriculture due to their favourable ecotoxicological characteristics, further research is needed to improve their efficacy, stability and usefulness in practical pest management.
The primary objective of the research conducted in collaboration between the University of Novi Sad (Serbia) and the International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies in Bari (Italy) was to develop a bioinsecticide formulation based on the combination of three essential oils:
The physico-chemical properties of the formulated bioinsecticide were then evaluated. The aim of this investigation was also to assess the insecticidal properties of the newly formulated bioinsecticides on D. suzukii through oviposition deterrence. Of the three formulations tested (all containing the 3 different essential oils, but in different proportions), the one also containing rapeseed oil as emulsifier was used for a two-choice bioassay.
The formulation created demonstrated favourable physico-chemical properties and a reduction in the amount of larvae in the crops. This is due to the fact that the bio-product tested also had a repulsive function against adult females, which avoided ovideposition on the fruit. The result was therefore significantly fewer larvae on the berries than in the control.
This investigation showed that bioinsecticides formulated using a combination of emulsifier, solvent and a mixture of essential oils has the potential to function as a repellent for D. suzukii. Pest control techniques using botanical insecticides containing essential oils are advancing at a rapid pace.
However, further research needs to be conducted under field conditions to gain a more complete understanding of their effectiveness in outdoor environments. Bioinsecticides are an environmentally friendly method of pest management, but there is still a long way to go before their full potential for effective crop protection in the field can be realised.
This should be followed by comprehensive research to assess potential side effects on natural enemies, ensuring that their application does not disturb the ecological balance or harm beneficial organisms.
Source: Dragana Bošković & Slavica Vuković & Sanja Lazić & Nuray Baser & Mihaela Kavran & Dragana Novaković & Aleksandra Šušnjar & Jelena Ećimović & Milica Stožinić & Dragana Šunjka, 2024. "Biopesticide formulation based on essential oils in Drosophila suzukii management as a future of pest control," Plant Protection Science, Czech Academy of Agricultural Sciences, vol. 60(3), pages 288-294.
Image: SL Fruit Service
Melissa Venturi
University of Bologna (IT)
09 Oct 2025
Global cherry production for 2025/26 falls by 10%, affecting Turkey, Europe and the United States. International prices are rising as Chile takes the lead in exports. The Southern Hemisphere is ready to seize the moment, but cherries risk becoming a luxury product.
03 Jul 2025
A research study in Canada and Germany uncovers the wide viral diversity in Drosophila suzukii and investigates the potential antiviral effects of the symbiotic bacterium Wolbachia, with key implications for biological control strategies in berry and cherry crops.
30 Dec 2025
A study from China shows that pre-cooling sweet cherries at 4°C can reduce cracking by over 50%. Cultivars Jiahong and Hongdeng react differently, but both benefit. Physiological and genetic data support the effectiveness of this low-impact postharvest solution.
30 Dec 2025
South Africa is strengthening its cherry industry and aims to access the Chinese market by the 2026/27 season. With earlier harvest times than Chile, expanding planted area, and growing export potential, it could become a key supplier during weeks of limited global availability.
