Biological Control of Spotted-Wing Drosophila (Diptera: Drosophilidae) - Current and Pending Tactics

Abstract

Spotted-wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is originally from Asia, and in the last decade it has become a global economic pest of small fruits and cherries. Growers have expressed strong interest in biological control and other sustainable tactics to reduce reliance on insecticides. Biological control of spotted-wing drosophila has been studied intensively, with over 75 research publications. Here, we are reporting current information on predators, parasitoids, pathogens (fungi, nematodes, bacteria, endosymbiotic bacteria, and viruses), and competitors of spotted-wing drosophila. When relevant for the natural enemy group, the discussion focuses on the impact each natural enemy has been observed to have in the field, how to optimize control, the efficacy of commercial products available, and options that may be available in the near future. Studies are summarized in tables that can be sorted by species, spotted-wing drosophila life stage targeted, outcomes, lab/field trials, and studies that examined residual activity, dose-dependent responses, or other effects.