Development of temperature-related population parameters for Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) to determine pest risk

Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae: Drosophilini) is a global pest attacking ripening small and stone fruit.  Laboratory studies were conducted to determine temperature-dependent survival and fecundity on two host fruit species. A temperature-dependent matrix population estimation model using these data was applied to determine if we could predict D. suzukii pressure based upon environmental conditions. As an example, the population estimates using the model explained different risk levels during the key harvest period between two distinctly different seasons in one commercial production scenario. The model was also applied to determine the effects of population limiting factors such as bacterial infection and parasitism. The population model is a first step to develop a risk-prediction tool for SWD. This model can be used to help pest management practitioners to make timely management decisions as the crop ripens.  The limitations and benefits of using this model are discussed.