Spotted Wing Drosophila, a well-known pest that infests ripe, ready-to-eat fruit, poses a significant threat to farmers because it is very difficult to control with standard pesticides. A new approach to tackling this pest involves manipulating the behavior of these insects by disguising healthy fruit as if it were infected with an unappealing pathogen.
By studying the specific odors emitted by infected fruit, researchers have identified the chemicals that repel the flies when applied to healthy fruit and are developing a slow-release device to disperse these fruity odors in the field, ensuring that they do not come into direct contact with the fruit. This method provides a new tool to help farmers protect their crops without relying exclusively on insecticides.
Source: USDA
Image: USDA
30 Apr 2025
In 2025, Spain’s cherry harvest will start 7–10 days later than usual. Forecasts predict excellent fruit sizes, stable volumes, and promising new export prospects with the opening of the Chinese market, a key driver for growth in the coming seasons.
27 Apr 2026
The Jerte Valley cherry harvest starts with 18,000–20,000 tons expected, high quality and European exports from May. Awaiting China market opening in a season marked by promotion, automation and unstable logistics costs affecting growers and supply chains.
06 May 2026
PUCV research in Chile studies surface pitting in cherries, a defect that affects fruit quality, market value and cold storage. The project examines varieties, cell walls, membranes and water balance to reduce losses in exports to China and improve postharvest quality.
06 May 2026
A study in India shows that GA3 at 150 ppm improves germination, seedling vigor and nutrition in Prunus cerasoides, the Himalayan wild cherry, offering new opportunities for more uniform, efficient and sustainable rootstock production.
