Potential of Pectis brevipedunculata essential oil in managing Drosophila suzukii

26 Jul 2024
1343

A recent study, conducted jointly by several Brazilian universities and research institutes, examined the insecticidal potential of Pectis brevipedunculata essential oil against Drosophila suzukii. D. suzukii is a significant and difficult-to-control pest, especially in sweet cherry cultivation, known for causing substantial damage to fruits, with potentially severe production losses.

The tested essential oil is derived from a plant (P. brevipedunculata) belonging to the Asteraceae family, traditionally used in medicine. This oil has proven to be an excellent bioinsecticide, while simultaneously having a minimal impact on pollinator bees, Apis mellifera and Partamona helleri.

The research utilized in silico approaches to examine the interactions between the essential oil components, mainly neral and geranial, and three key protein targets: γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and glutathione S-transferase (GST).

Molecular docking predictions revealed a higher affinity of these compounds for GABA receptors in Drosophila suzukii compared to those in Apis mellifera. This differential affinity is crucial in explaining the selective toxicity observed in bioassays.

The essential oil demonstrated significant insecticidal activity, with a median lethal concentration (LC50) of 2.25 μL/mL against D. suzukii. In contrast, both species of pollinator bees showed greater tolerance, indicating the essential oil’s potential to target the pest while sparing beneficial insects. This selective toxicity is a key advantage, aligning with the principles of integrated pest management (IPM), which aim to minimize harm to non-target species and the environment.

Despite these promising results, the study emphasizes the need for further investigations to fully understand the mechanisms behind the selective action of the essential oil. The authors suggest more in-depth tests (such as binding tests and electrophysiological recordings) to clarify the modes of action.

Such research could strengthen the case for P. brevipedunculata essential oil in IPM strategies, offering a natural and effective solution for managing Drosophila suzukii while protecting pollinators.

The study concludes by highlighting the dual benefits of P. brevipedunculata essential oil in pest control: its efficacy against an important agricultural pest like D. suzukii and its safety for key pollinator species. This dual advantage underscores the importance of developing sustainable agricultural practices that balance pest management needs with environment protection and biodiversity.

Source:Cruz Araujo SH, Mantilla-Afanador JG, Svacina T, Nascimento TF, da Silva Lima A, Camara MBP, Viteri Jumbo LO, dos Santos GR, da Rocha CQ, de Oliveira EE. Contributions of γ-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Receptors for the Activities of Pectis brevipedunculata Essential Oil against Drosophila suzukii and Pollinator Bees. Plants. 2024; 13(10):1392. doi.org/10.3390/plants13101392.
Image: VUR

Andrea Giovannini
University of Bologna (IT)


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Interesting opportunities for cherry tree development in Peru

Production

25 Nov 2024

Despite difficulties in the cultivation of cherry varieties in Peru, trials with varieties from the USA and Italy could start soon. This has improved the national outlook, which in turn is looking at the growing demand in some markets.

Innovation and sustainability in cherry farming: varieties and rootstocks in Moldova

Rootstocks

12 Jun 2025

Technology, genetics and sustainability: cherry farming in Moldova is evolving with varieties like Ferrovia, Regina, Skeena and rootstocks such as Gisela 6 and Cerasus mahaleb L. A strategic approach to improve yield and reduce environmental impact.

In evidenza

Sweet cherry genome ‘Tieton’: genetic breakthrough from China’s Shandong region

Breeding

24 Oct 2025

A new telomere-to-telomere reference genome for the sweet cherry ‘Tieton’, developed in China’s Shandong region, marks a major advance in plant genomics and opens new paths for precision breeding, genetic analysis, and varietal innovation in fruit crops.

Australia launches export plan: premium cherries target global markets

Markets

24 Oct 2025

Australia launches a new strategy to triple cherry exports by 2030, focusing on quality, premium markets, grower training and market access. Led by Hort Innovation, the plan aims to position Australian cherries as a top-tier product in international markets.

Tag Popolari