Attract‐and‐Kill Method Lowers Population Density of Drosophila Suzukii in Grapes and Cherries in Greece

ABSTRACT Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is a worldwide invasive pest of soft‐skinned fruits. In this study, we evaluated an attract‐and‐kill (A&K) method using a slow‐release matrix, SPLAT (Specialized Pheromone and Lure Application Technology), formulated with attractants tailored for D. suzukii and spinosad as an alternative strategy to chemical control management strategies. We conducted trials in vineyards and cherry orchards, two commodities that are frequently affected by D. suzukii in northern Greece. The results showed that the A&K treatments reduced D. suzukii populations compared to control plots as assessed by trap catches. In the treated plots, the population remained constant, while in the control plots, the number of individuals increased. The potential of A&K as an ecologically friendly approach to D. suzukii management in Greek orchards is highlighted by this study.