USDA: odour research could solve the fight against Drosophila suzukii

29 Aug 2024
1811

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


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Washington Cherries: New Tech Turns Surplus into Shelf-Stable Snacks

Processed

23 Oct 2025

A USDA-funded project by Washington State University uses Vacuum Microwave Drying (VMD) and edible coatings to turn sweet cherries into shelf-stable, safe, and high-quality products, helping reduce waste, support growers, and increase global market opportunities.

Cherries and health: many benefits thanks to antioxidants and bioactive compounds

Health

31 Jan 2025

The high content of antioxidants in cherries, particularly anthocyanins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These contribute to cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function and reducing the risk of heart disease.

In evidenza

Precision irrigation and resilience: new strategies for sustainable agriculture

Tech management

01 Jul 2026

In Spain, across Valle del Jerte, Aragon and Extremadura, precision irrigation helps sweet cherry trees manage water stress, improving water use, fruit quality, yield per plant and resilience to climate change in Mediterranean mountain orchards and local productivity.

Cherries: with Unitec, artificial intelligence reaches the heart of quality.

Post-harvest​

01 Jul 2026

UNITEC CHERRY VISION and UNIQ CHERRY technologies support packing houses in Spain, from Aragon to Extremadura, in sorting cherries by quality, sugar level and defects, improving efficiency, profitability and commercial value across a demanding fresh fruit market today.

Tag Popolari