Research Updates
These updates summarize the results of recent studies. Check back soon for more!
Evaluation of a Spider Venom-Based Bioinsecticide for SWD Control
Insecticide resistance continues to be a concern for fruit growers managing SWD. Researchers at Michigan State University decided to test a novel, spider venom-based biopesticide called “Hv1a”, commercially available at T-Spear (Vestaron Corporation) alone and in combination with several adjuvants, to see how well it controlled SWD in blueberries.
SWD Responds to Different Attractants in the Winter and Summer
Research Update by Danielle Kirkpatrick on 4/27/2018
In order to survive in environments ranging from very cold to very hot, SWD appears to respond to seasonal changes by producing separate morphs (flies that appear externally different) that can survive in a range of temperatures and environmental conditions. Understanding differences in response to cues between the summer and winter SWD morphs could potentially lead to optimized traps that are morph-dependent and improved monitoring during the winter and early spring periods.
Reproductive Biology of Two Potential SWD Biocontrol Agents
Research Update by Aurora Toennisson on 11/6/2018
In the spotted-wing drosophila’s native range in East Asia, a wide number of natural enemies keep SWD numbers in check. These natural enemies include parasitoid wasps that lay eggs in SWD larvae or pupae ultimately killing them. Our researchers are experimenting with two potential parasitoid wasps, Ganaspis brasiliensis and Leptopilina japonica, to determine if they could help control SWD in the US.