USDA: odour research could solve the fight against Drosophila suzukii

29 Aug 2024
527

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

Sustainability and foreign trade: Cherry Market Network is the new programme for Chilean producers

Production

03 Apr 2024

The Maule and O'Higgins regions account for 82 per cent of cherry exports. In Curicó, the launch of the Cherry Market Network programme was held, a project co-funded by Corfo that aims to sustainably strengthen the region's fruit industry.

NatuWrap is the natural patent that could improve post-harvest storage

Post-harvest​

02 Dec 2024

Beall explained that the patented formulation of NatuWrap consists of several natural components, including earth clay and tree extracts. The formulation is water-soluble, biodegradable, and the company claims it is safe for human consumption and the environment.

In evidenza

The importance of endophytic bacteria in sweet cherry propagation and cryopreservation

Tech management

24 Apr 2025

A recent study explores how cryopreservation and in vitro culture affect the cherry tree microbiome. Endophytic bacteria can improve plant regeneration, unlocking new opportunities for clonal propagation and biodiversity conservation in horticulture.

Cherries 2025 in Uzbekistan: dollar prices stable, but retailers differences noted

Markets

24 Apr 2025

The first cherries of 2025 have arrived in Uzbek supermarkets with prices between 14,990 and 19,999 SOM. Comparison with previous years, local market trends, exchange rate, domestic production and insights on global export dynamics.

Tag Popolari