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
04 Oct 2023
Nick Noske, President of Cherry Growers Australia, emphasises the importance of traceability to improve the competitiveness of cherries in international markets by strengthening the provenance, authenticity and safety of products.
02 May 2024
'In Chile it will rain with some frequency between now and July,' says Fernando Santibáñez, 'however, from July onwards, it is expected to be dry. The Niña that will set in will be mild and could produce a big drought, but be careful with water this season'.
22 Jun 2026
The 29th Italian Cherries National Competition concluded in Bracigliano, honoring Spernocchia cherries from Bracigliano Natura and Alfonso Ferrentino, Sweet Saretta from Quartieri Farm, and Ferrovia from Rosanna Gullo for quality, flavor and deep territorial identity.
22 Jun 2026
Cherry Growers Australia unveils its 2025-2030 Strategic Plan in Adelaide at the Cherry 2026 conference. The roadmap aims to lift domestic consumption and exports, improve quality, innovation and sustainability, and unite Australian growers around shared priorities.
