Biochar-Derived Smoke Waters Affect Bactrocera oleae Behavior and Control the Olive Fruit Fly under Field Conditions

Bactrocera oleae is the key pest of olive production. Several attempts have been carried out over time to control it using biological solutions but with results rarely comparable those obtained chemical applications. The purpose this work was identify and test new compounds from samples various Smoke Waters (SWs) for their effect on fly, given low impact environment. SWs different feedstocks were used in vitro open field shown alter B. fitness, acting its microbiome, particularly presence activity primary endosymbiont “Ca. Erwinia dacicola”, also affect behavior adult flies, altering attractiveness drupes susceptible attack. effects recorded concentration-dependent varied among repulsion, up 87% towards females, indecision, 70% males, attraction, fresh green olives, based starting materials. These responses confirmed electroantennography trials during two-years South Central Italy. Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry highlighted such as guaiacol hydroquinone potentially important observed activity. Principal Component Analyses proximity similar feedstocks. In controlled conditions, females appear be more sensitive SW treatments. Field how can lead depression infestation levels obtainable other well-known compounds, kaolin clay isopropyl-myristate (repulsive), or pheromones (attractive).