Drosophila suzukii

As part of the InvaProtect project, we investigated the overwintering of D. suzukii in our region, i.e. population dynamics, overwintering sites and cold tolerance. The number of overwintered flies and the population build-up in spring are decisive factors for further infestation in cherries and soft fruit. In a Biochance project, we have attempted to develop a specific “attract & kill” procedure as an alternative, environmentally friendly control method for this control period. It is based on so-called RNA interference (RNAi) through the application of small double-stranded RNA molecules that are specific to D. suzukii and therefore have no effect on other (beneficial) insects. The RNA molecules were offered as food in an attractant trap. Another environmentally friendly control method is the “push & pull” strategy. In the FNR project Dsuzukii-Repell we want to identify repellent substances from conifers for this purpose. When applied to the inside of commercial orchards, these will create a push effect. On the other hand, fruit-specific attractants are used outside the plantations to create the pull effect. The olfactorically active plant extracts are embedded in a biocompatible sprayable SiO2-cyclodextrin matrix for application. Attractant traps with high selectivity against D. suzukii are also intended to prevent the pests from migrating back into the orchards.