Effect of irradiation, age, sex, and mating on cuticular hydrocarbons in Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae).

The spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii, is an economically significant invasive pest affecting berry crops worldwide, with effective management reliant on comprehending its reproductive behaviour. This study evaluated the effects of age, sex, reproductive status, and irradiation on the cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profile of D. suzukii. Samples from irradiated and non-irradiated adults were analyzed using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Heneicosene, (Z)-9-tricosene, and hexacosene were identified in the samples. The abundance of these compounds varied mainly as a function of age and mating condition, especially in females. Heneicosene increased with age and mating, whereas (Z)-9-tricosene showed a contrary trend. Irradiation did not affect most CHCs, although an increase in hexacosene was detected in older irradiated females. In males, the profiles were more stable. The results indicate that CHCs in D. suzukii are highly plastic and that irradiation has specific and limited effects, suggesting that the Sterile Insect Technique may be implemented without significantly disrupting the chemical communication essential for mating.