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
21 Jul 2026
INDUSER and ICOEL strengthen Italy’s fresh produce industry through a strategic alliance focused on automation, associative weighing and multi-format packaging. The partnership combines technology, local support and solutions for cherries, blueberries and other produce.
28 Oct 2024
A recent study, based on the use of the MaxEnt model, has enabled Chinese researchers to predict potentially suitable areas for the cultivation of this species in China, identifying key environmental factors that influence its distribution. The MaxEnt model proved effective.
09 Nov 2026
When sourcing processed cherries from Chile, set specifications, size, Brix, microbiological requirements, packaging, Incoterms and shipping dates before harvest. Terms reduce the risk of an unsuitable lot and give processors time to prepare production for the season.
09 Nov 2026
Winter cold influences dormancy and flowering in berry crops, but chill hours, Utah chill units and chill portions are not interchangeable. From vernalization to chill and forcing models, learn how to interpret cold exposure and validate predictions in field observations.
