Current research projects

Insect Services is currently a project partner in one publicly funded research project.

Project Dsuzukii-Repell

Titel: Development of a push and pull strategy for the control of Drosophila suzukii using a sprayable matrix and extracts from conifers

Sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture in the context of the Renewable Resources Promotion Programme. Funding indicator: 2220HV088B. Running time: 01.09.2022-31.08.2025.

Project partner: RLP Agroscience GmbH (Neustadt) and Nanopool GmbH (Schwalbach), Germany

The cherry vinegar fly Drosophila suzukii has spread rapidly throughout Europe and causes considerable damage to orchards and vineyards. D. suzukii females lay their eggs in ripening fruit, the eggs hatch into maggots which initially feed on the fruit flesh. The main damage is caused by larval feeding. Currently, there are no effective control measures for D. suzukii. The aim of the project is therefore to establish an alternative, environmentally friendly control method, a so-called Push&Pull strategy. For this purpose, a plant-friendly SiO2-based sprayable matrix, which polymerises to an extremely thin transparent film, is to be used for applying a repellent scent to host plants and an attractive scent to plants outside the production facilities. In addition, attractant traps containing an attractive as well as selective attractant (fruit extracts) for the cherry vinegar fly are to catch the animals.