Researcher prepares to observe and record flies' behavior. Image credit: Domini Brown
Background
The spotted wing drosophila (SWD, Drosophila suzukii) is an invasive fruit fly that has caused major losses in fruit production since arriving in the U.S. in the late 2000s. These tiny pests lay eggs in ripening fruit, leading to spoilage and crop losses that can reach up to 30%, amounting to over $400 million annually. Traditional control efforts like insecticides are becoming less effective due to resistance and pose risks to beneficial insects and ecosystems.
To tackle this growing problem, biological control methods using genetically modified (GM) SWD males have been developed. These include techniques where engineered males carry some form of lethal gene when they mate with wild females, preventing successful reproduction.
In this project, researchers aim to test two of the most promising strategies, Engineered Genetic Incompatibility (EGI) and the Repressible Lethal (RL) system, by releasing GM males into controlled environments and studying their impact on wild-type populations. These indoor trials will help determine how well each system suppresses SWD numbers and disrupts reproduction.
Research questions
- Can genetically modified fruit flies suppress invasive spotted-wing drosophila populations without establishing permanent populations themselves?
- Can researchers reliably sort male and female flies at the scale needed for biological control?
- How well do genetically modified flies survive and control pests under realistic growing conditions?
Practical implications
This study addresses the limitations of current pest control methods and introduces a novel approach with GM SWD control. If successful, the results could pave the way for open-air releases of GM SWD males, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to pesticides, and helping protect fruit crops across the country and beyond.
Findings
This project began in July 2026 and is in progress for the next few years. Please check back at a later time for updates.
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