Susceptibility of Highbush Blueberry Cultivars to Infestation by Drosophila suzukii

Abstract

Drosophila suzukii or spotted wing drosophila, is an invasive vinegar fly species that has cost American fruit growers millions in harvest damage since they arrived in 2008 Female D suzukii have a serrated ovipositor allowing them to lay eggs underneath the skin of ripening fruits, like blueberries The objective of this study was to identify the blueberry cultivars and stages of ripeness that are most susceptible to D suzukii oviposition