Biological control of the cherry fruit fly, Rhagoletis cerasi L. (Diptera, Tephritidae) by use of entomopathogenic nematodes: first experiences towards practical implementation.

Summary

The use of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) is a promising approach to control the cherry fruit
fly, Rhagoletis cerasi L.. We already demonstrated the high potential of EPN to infect larvae after
leaving the cherry for pupation in the soil in laboratory and field experiments. For practice, an application
technique is needed, that is both, grower- and EPN friendly. We tested a tractor mounted
spray boom for treatment under the canopy area. The achieved rate of EPN in the soil met the expectations.
The activity of EPN in soil samples was high after application, but dropped to 60% of the
initial activity within one week. Exact forecasting of larval drop from cherries is another major challenge.
To obtain basic data, we recorded the phenology of infestation and larval emergence on
trees which were not harvested. Sequential infestation on the same cherry variety was observed
and larvae dropped from individual trees for several weeks.