Ecofriendly control of Drosophila suzukii via the photoinsecticide chlorophyllin

Drosophila suzukii is an invasive pest causing high losses of agricultural crops. Conventional treatment strategies are considered problematic for their high risk of inducing resistance and environmental harm. Photodynamic Inactivation (PDI) is based on the photosensitizer-mediated and light-dependent generation of reactive oxygen species. Natural and food-grade photosensitizers, such as the food additive sodium magnesium chlorophyllin (Chl, E140), have been proven effective against microbial pathogens and several agricultural pests. The aim of this study is to assess whether the principle of Chl-based PDI of D. suzukii could be transferred from laboratory towards practical conditions.