Drosophila suzukii and cherry trees: a challenge requiring prevention and prompt management

Drosophila suzukii is a pest belonging to the order Diptera. Adults measure between 2 and 4 mm. The species has a high dispersal capacity and can travel several kilometres. Unlike many other species, it lays its eggs on healthy fruit. Each female can lay approximately 350 eggs during her lifetime, each measuring around 0.6 mm in length. Damage develops from the inside out, directly compromising fruit quality and marketability.

For chemical control, insecticides belonging to the spinosyn family (spinosad and spinetoram) and the anthranilic diamide family (cyantraniliprole) are important options within the crop protection programme. However, it is essential to include other active ingredients with different modes of action to prevent the development of resistance.

Control recommendations

For the management of moths and D. suzukii, treatments should begin at the fruit colour-break stage and continue through the straw-colour stage. The protection programme should be maintained until the end of harvest.