Spotted-wing drosophila

Spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) is a serious berry and stone fruit pest in Western Washington that damages ripe-to-overripe fruit by depositing eggs directly beneath the skin. Larvae tunnel through fruit tissue creating brown, sunken areas; infested fruit develops a fermented or sour smell as bacteria from egg-laying females contaminate the fruit. Berries like raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry are particularly susceptible.

Monitor ripe fruit starting in June for collapse signs. Harvest fruit promptly when ripe rather than leaving it overripe. Exclude flies with fine-mesh netting. Remove fallen fruit promptly. Spinosad and pyrethrin-based products provide good control with low residue concerns.