Evaluation of the Insecticidal Potential of Lysinibacillus fusiformis Against Drosophila suzukii Larvae

The increase in the world population and consequent rise in food demand have led to the extensive use of chemical pesticides, causing environmental and health concerns. In response, biological control methods, particularly those involving microbial agents, have emerged as sustainable alternatives within integrated pest management. This study highlights the potential of <i>Lysinibacillus fusiformis</i> as a biocontrol agent against the dipteran <i>Drosophila suzukii</i> (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae), a pest responsible for damaging soft-skinned fruits. Experimental treatments using vegetative cells, spores, and secondary metabolites of <i>L. fusiformis</i> on <i>D. suzukii</i> larvae demonstrated significant larvicidal effects, accompanied by observable changes in gut morphology under microscopy. Moreover, preliminary immunological assays showed the interference of this bacterium with the host immune system. All the results indicate the suitability of <i>L. fusiformis</i> for its possible integration into sustainable agricultural practices, although additional research is required to understand its applicability in the field.