Current knowledge of interactions between Drosophila suzukii and microbes, and their potential utility for pest management

Abstract

Insects exhibit complex symbiotic interactions with microorganisms, which provide an opportunity for developing novel pest management strategies. Closely related to Drosophila melanogaster, which is commonly used as a model to explore insect–microbe interactions, Drosophila suzukii is an important invasive insect pest of fruit crops in the Americas and Europe. We provide an overview of Drosophila–microbe interactions and review current research with D. suzukii. Recent studies revealed yeast and bacterial species associated with D. suzukii flies, fly guts and infested fruit. The ecological importance of these insect–microbe interactions is under investigation. Microbes have a strong impact on insect physiology and D. suzukii responds both positively and aversively to microbial volatiles. We highlight potential pest management strategies that take advantage of D. suzukii–microbe ecology, including improved monitoring as well as management using behavioural manipulation, phagostimulants and biotechnology.