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
08 May 2026
The study on Santina and Bing in Chile, Argentina and Italy examines how sweet cherry responds to Pseudomonas syringeae and water stress, highlighting genes, photosynthesis, molecular defenses and varietal selection for more resilient fruit crops under climate change today.
21 Jan 2026
A study in Chile tested ultrasound and nanobubble treatments on “Regina” sweet cherries to improve postharvest quality. The results reveal promising sustainable alternatives to fungicides, preserving freshness during long-distance shipping and storage.
21 May 2026
A study in China clarifies how ethylene and PavSPL7 regulate sweet cherry softening. This transcription factor limits cell wall degradation, improving fruit firmness, postharvest quality and potential shelf life for more efficient cherry supply chains worldwide.
21 May 2026
Chilean cherries are entering a new phase shaped by quality, agronomic precision and the demands of the Chinese market. From orchard management to post-harvest, Chile is focusing on uniform, large, competitive fruit with strong commercial value in the global market.
