Enhanced biocontrol traits of <scp> <i>Pachycrepoideus vindemmiae</i> </scp> reared on the alternative host <scp> <i>Drosophila virilis</i> </scp>

BACKGROUND: The use of alternative hosts is a key strategy for enhancing the efficacy of parasitoid wasps in pest control. Pachycrepoideus vindemmiae is an important pupal ectoparasitoid of numerous agricultural and public-health pests, including Drosophila suzukii, Bactrocera dorsalis, and Megaselia scalaris. However, a suitable alternative host for the mass rearing of P. vindemmiae has yet to be established. RESULTS: . CONCLUSION: In summary, rearing P. vindemmiae on D. virilis enhances its biocontrol potential, offering a promising strategy to mitigate public-health risks and reduce agricultural economic losses. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.