Development of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Assays for the Rapid Detection of Toxigenic and in Nuts.

species create major postharvest problems due to the food losses caused by their mere presence and the hazardous mycotoxins they produce, such as aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA). These mycotoxins are mainly produced by and , respectively. In this study, we developed a rapid detection method for the two aforementioned species based on loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP).

Insecticidal Activity of Selected Essential Oils against (Diptera: Drosophilidae).

The spotted wing drosophila (SWD), Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae), is an invasive polyphagous pest of soft-skinned fruit that has started to threaten small fruit production in Europe since 2008. High reproductive capacity, short generation time, and difficulties in visualizing early damage contribute to its rapid spread. Currently, the control strategy against mostly relies on treatment with synthetic insecticides.

Attraction of Egg Parasitoids and to the chemical cues of and .

and are two Asian egg parasitoids associated with different pentatomids such as . Adventive populations of were found in Northern Italy, suggesting its employment as a biological control agent (BCA) against . Nevertheless, to reduce the latter's population, was released in Italy.

Reduction of Post-Harvest Injuries Caused by in Some Cultivars of Sweet Cherries Using a High Carbon Dioxide Level and Cold Storage.

Efficient strategies are required in sweet cherry fruits to control the spotted wing drosophila (SWD), , due to its adverse economic effect on farmers. Cold storage (CS) and storage with elevated carbon dioxide (CO) are environmentally safe approaches for the pest control of stored fresh fruit. These strategies are effective in controlling a wide variety of insect species, without allowing toxic compounds to accumulate.

Influence of Distance from the Host on Parasitisation by (Szépligeti) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae).

The olive fruit fly, , is considered the main olive pest worldwide, and has been the target of biological control programmes through the release of the braconid parasitoid . Laboratory tests were performed to evaluate the influence of distance from the host on parasitisation, placing larvae of the substitute host at seven distances (0, 0.5, 1, 1.

Genetic variability in Italian populations of Drosophila suzukii.

Background: Drosophila suzukii is a highly destructive pest species, causing substantial economic losses in soft fruit production. To better understand migration patterns, gene flow and adaptation in invaded regions, we studied the genetic structure of D. suzukii collected across Italy, where it was first observed in 2008.