Invasion biology of spotted wing Drosophila (Drosophila suzukii): a global perspective and future priorities

Abstract

The Asian vinegar fly Drosophila suzukii (spotted wing Drosophila [SWD]) has emerged as a major invasive insect pest of small and stone fruits in both the Americas and Europe since the late 2000s. While research efforts have rapidly progressed in Asia, North America, and Europe over the past 5 years, important new insights may be gained in comparing and contrasting findings across the regions affected by SWD. In this review, we explore common themes in the invasion biology of SWD by examining (1) its biology and current pest status in endemic and recently invaded regions; (2) current efforts and future research needs for the development of predictive models for its geographic expansion; and (3) prospects for both natural and classical (=importation) biological control of SWD in invaded habitats, with emphasis on the role of hymenopteran parasitoids. We conclude that particularly fruitful areas of research should include fundamental studies of its overwintering, host-use, and dispersal capabilities; as well as applied studies of alternative, cost-effective management techniques to complement insecticide use within the integrated pest management framework. Finally, we emphasize that outreach efforts are critical to effective SWD management by highlighting successful Communicated by M. Traugott. Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (strategies and insights gained from various geographic regions.Keywords Biological control Á Drosophila Á Frugivore Á Integrated pest management Á Invasion biology Key message• Spotted wing Drosophila (SWD) is a major invasive pest of soft fruits in the Americas and Europe. • We review the current global distribution and economic impacts of SWD, develop models for predicting its further spread, and discuss the prospects for biological control of this pest. • The following research areas into SWD biology appear particularly promising: its biology at low temperatures, the dispersal and migratory abilities of adults, and exploration in Asian regions for potential classical biological control agents.

The sexual dimorphic behaviour of adult Drosophila suzukii: elevated female locomotor activity and loss of siesta is a post-mating response

“…The spotted wing Drosophila, Drosophila suzukii, is an Asiatic pest that has recently attracted much attention with its emergence in both North America and Europe as a major pest of berry and stone fruit (Asplen et al, 2015;Calabria et al, 2012;Cini et al, 2014;Lee et al, 2011;Walsh et al, 2011). Unlike other fruit flies, D. suzukii lays eggs in ripening fruit, causing extensive damage leading to serious economic losses (Bolda et al, 2010;Goodhue et al, 2011).…”

“…This is facilitated by a modified ovipositor, which is larger and sharper than in other fruit flies (Atallah et al, 2014) and well adapted for puncturing the skin of ripening fruit during egg deposition. The speed at which D. suzukii populations have invaded and become established in Europe and North America is evidence of successful physiological and behavioural adaptation to new climatic environments either after passive dispersal through fruit imports or by adult migration (Asplen et al, 2015;Cini et al, 2014). The success and severity of the economic damage inflicted on the fruit industry has recently focused attention on various aspects of the biology of this pest which might inform the development of effective control strategies, especially those based on low-pesticide input and which are compatible with integrated pest management.…”

Development, Reproductive Output and Population Growth of the Fruit Fly Pest <I>Drosophila suzukii</I> (Diptera: Drosophilidae) on Artificial Diet

“…Palabras Clave: drosophila de alas manchadas; cría en masa; dieta del insecto; plaga invasora; ecología Spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii (Matsumara) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is a large vinegar fly that has spread from its center of origin in Asia to Hawaii, North America, and Europe, and is now beginning its invasion of fruit-producing areas of South America and Africa (Asplen et al 2015). Currently, crops in Australia and New Zealand show no signs of D. suzukii activity.…”

Agricultural production: assessment of the potential use of Cas9-mediated gene drive systems for agricultural pest control

“…Spotted wing Drosophila: an invasive pest of soft-skinned fruits Drosophila suzukii (commonly called spotted-wing Drosophila) larvae are capable of infesting a wide range of host fruit but appear to be most significant pests in stone fruits (peach, cherry, and plum) and berries (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries) (Lee et al, "In Focus," 2011;Asplen et al 2015). Unlike most other Drosophila species, female D. suzukii use their highly developed serrated ovipositor to pierce the skin of soft fruits and lay their eggs inside the fruit (Lee et al, "The Susceptibility of Small Fruits," 2011).…”