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.
A survey of 384 adults found that consumers increasingly prioritise local produce. Consumers believe that local produce is fresher, tastier and of higher quality than fruit that is transported and stored for long periods.
The floral induction phase establishes the quantity of flowers while floral differentiation establishes the quality of flowers in terms of floral organ formation. The phases depend on orchard management in terms of water, nutrition and light.
A study on low-chill sweet cherry cultivars grown in southeastern China analyzes fruit quality, color and gene expression. Promising results show potential to enhance cherry traits in subtropical climates and improve future breeding strategies.
Chile has launched with China a 100% digital phytosanitary certification system for agricultural exports. The initiative improves security, traceability and efficiency for key products such as cherries, grapes, plums, grains and flowers, while reducing costs and delivery times.