Geogin/Sprea, a Bioplanet distributor, has started introducing Trichopria drosophilae, the antagonist insect to Drosophila suzukii, already in late March on over 200 hectares featuring around 150-200 companies between Verona and Vicenza.
Parasitism of Trichopria drosophilae on a Drosophila s. pupa
Maurizio Poletti from Geofin/Sprea explains that "it is a medium-long term project that also has an immediate positive effect. During the first part, between late March and April, we performed the first series of launches. Then we will perform other launches during harvesting and the post-harvesting period to strengthen containment activities in the future."
Producers are asked to place the maximum attention on waste cherries. "They must never be left in the orchards but placed in closed containers with a net, so that the parasites that reproduce may not escape. At the same time, antagonist insects may enter and attack the harmful insect further. This method was already tested by the E. Mach foundation."
"Approximately one million Trichopriadrosophilae have been planned between late March and the post-harvesting period, also with results in the long-period in mind. Just like with other insects such as the brown marmorated stink bug, the fight against Drosophila cannot be effective if only a few companies are involved," explains Stefano Foschi from Bioplanet.
Trichopria is a parasitoid of Drosophila pupas, meaning that it hits the harmful insects after the larva state. The objective is therefore to reduce the presence of new Drosophila and limit their impact in the current and future seasons.
Trichopria is suitable for inoculation and preventive introductions, not so much within the orchard itself but mainly within the surrounding environment. A strong parasitoid population can be obtained in advance with respect to when the phytophagous insect attacks.
"Post-harvesting introductions and those on orchards with non-harvested or damaged fruit are also important, as the fruit becomes an ideal substrate for the multiplication and colonization of Trichopria."
Bioplanet is also supplying large quantities in France (and Spain as well) where similar programs have been initiated to protect strawberries, cherries and soft fruit. The insect can be found all over Europe and therefore the sales licence is extended to the whole continent.
Contacts
Bioplanet
Via Masiera I, 1195
47522, Cesena (FC)
Email: info@bioplanet.it
Website: www.bioplanet.it