Potential of the European earwig (<i>Forficula auricularia</i>) as a biocontrol agent of the soft and stone fruit pest <i>Drosophila suzukii</i>

Abstract

Reductions in both larval and adult offspring in the presence of earwigs indicate an impact on D. suzukii via predation prior to metamorphosis or disruption of oviposition. Although F. auricularia may predate D. suzukii populations, its capacity to act as a biocontrol agent may be limited. However, results suggest that F. auricularia may be a more effective biocontrol agent earlier in the growing season. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.