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
20 Jan 2026
A joint study by Chinese institutes and Michigan State University reveals how yellow-black bagging improves the color of 'Lapins' sweet cherries. The rise in anthocyanins and sugars highlights new agronomic strategies to enhance fruit quality in cherry production.
27 Feb 2024
The company is studying how to produce cherries without stone. We are therefore working on modifying the architecture of the plant,' says Tom Adams, CEO and co-founder of the company, 'so that it can be grown in a greenhouse like a blueberry, thus expanding the production area.
17 Mar 2026
Research in New Zealand and Australia examines how rain, protective covers, humidity and calcium affect cherry firmness and fruit quality. The project aims to help growers manage increasingly unpredictable weather and safeguard high-value export markets worldwide today.
17 Mar 2026
Research conducted at the Agricultural Business College in Shaoxing, China compares different tree competition indices used in plantations. The study evaluates how spatial factors, tree size and environmental conditions influence growth dynamics and forest management strategies.
