Fine-mesh exclusion netting for control of Drosophila suzukii

Abstract

The exclusion of agricultural pests through physical barriers is a growing practice expanded from its initial use for climate control and season extension. Today, a diversity of approaches to physical barriers allow growers to suppress damage from birds, large arthropod pests, and the spotted wing Drosophila (Drosophila suzukii). Here, we review the history of physical barriers, the diversity of approaches, the efficacy for suppression of D. suzukii, and potential win-wins and trade-offs with economic and agricultural management. For long-lived perennial fruit systems, inexpensive spunbond materials have been eschewed in favor of stronger, woven, polyamide mesh nets. A flurry of 12 publications show that fine-mesh netting excludes D. suzukii in blueberry, blackberry, raspberry, and grapes compared to non-insecticidal and insecticidal controls. These nets also protect against insect and avian fruit pests, increase yield, have little to no impact on fruit quality, and minor impacts on temperature and humidity. However, pollination management challenges their implementation. Further, the high cost of both application and purchase of materials are potential barriers to adoption. Nonetheless, with increased longevity and decreasing costs, we conclude that netting physical barriers are effective and show great potential as an alternative or companion to insecticide use for the future.