Spotted-wing drosophila
Drosophila suzukii
55 host plants
Last updated
This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.
Spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) damages ripe-to-overripe berry and stone 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.
Quick Reference
Monitoring & Action
Apple cider vinegar traps: fill a container with ACV plus a drop of dish soap, punch 3/16-inch holes in the lid. Deploy traps in late May before fruit ripens. Check weekly. Male wing spots confirm SWD presence (vs. common vinegar flies). Replace bait every 1-2 weeks.
Females lay eggs inside ripening (not overripe) fruit. Larvae feed internally, causing soft spots, collapse, and secondary fungal infection. Infested fruit often appears normal externally until larvae are well developed. A single female can lay 300+ eggs. Harvest losses can exceed 60% in unprotected plantings.
Cultural Controls
- Exclusion netting (<1mm mesh) deployed after pollination, before fruit colors; most effective home garden control (Cornell: 0.37-0.53% infestation vs 60% without)
- Harvest frequently (every 2-3 days when fruit is ripe); do not leave ripe fruit on bushes
- Remove and destroy fallen fruit immediately; compost piles must reach 130°F+ to kill larvae
- Refrigerate harvested fruit promptly (below 40°F stops larval development)
- Prune to maintain open canopy for air circulation and faster fruit drying