kirsikkakärpänen

Kirsikkakärpänen refers to the cherry fruit fly, scientific name Rhagoletis cerasi. It is a species of insect in the family Tephritidae, commonly known as fruit flies. This small fly is a significant pest of cherry crops in Europe and parts of Asia. The adult cherry fruit fly is approximately 4-5 millimeters long with a black body and distinctive white bands on its abdomen. Its wings are clear with black markings.

The life cycle of the cherry fruit fly begins in the spring when adult flies emerge from overwintering pupae in the soil. They are attracted to ripe cherries and lay their eggs on the surface of the fruit. After a few days, the eggs hatch into small, white maggots. These maggots burrow into the cherry flesh and feed on the developing fruit, causing it to rot and become inedible. A single maggot can destroy an entire cherry.

Infestation by the cherry fruit fly can lead to substantial crop losses. Damaged fruit often shows signs of discoloration and may drop from the tree prematurely. Control methods include monitoring fly populations using traps, applying insecticides at specific times during the adult fly's emergence and egg-laying period, and practicing orchard sanitation by removing fallen fruit to reduce overwintering populations. Cultural practices such as covering trees with netting can also provide protection.