Evaluation of the insecticidal potential of lysinibacillus fusiformis against drosophila suzukii larvae

The spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) is a major pest of thin-skinned fruit crops, causing substantial economic losses and driving increased reliance on chemical pesticides. This study investigated the larvicidal activity of the Gram-positive bacterium Lysinibacillus fusiformis against D. suzukii. Larvae were exposed to different bacterial components, includ ing vegetative cells, spores, and secondary metabolites. All components exhibited larvicidal effects, with the strongest impact observed when applied in combination. The treatments induced gut damage and impaired immune responses. These findings suggest the potential of L. fusiformis as a biological control agent, which may contribute to more eco-sustainable agricultural practices. However, additional research is necessary to evaluate its safety and effectiveness under semi-field and field conditions.