Spatial and temporal genetic variation of Drosophila suzukii in Germany

Abstract Native to Southeast Asia, the spotted wing drosophila (SWD), Drosophila suzukii Matsumura, rapidly invaded America and Europe in past 20 years. As a crop pest of soft-skinned fruits with wide range host plants, it threatens fruit industry worldwide, causing enormous economic losses. To control this invasive species, an understanding its population dynamics structure is necessary. Here, we report genetics development SWD Germany from 2017–19 using microsatellite markers over 11 different sample sites. It first study that examines SWD’s genetic changes 3 years compared multiple international laboratory strains. Results show populations are highly homogenous without differences between or years, which indicates well adapted, migrate freely, invasions outside either did not take place negligible. Such high variability migration could allow for fast establishment species. This especially problematic regard ongoing spread species bear potential developing pesticide resistance, increase impact further future.