Odrůdová preference tmavky švestkové [Varietal preference of plum seed wasp]

Abstract

The plum seed wasp Eurytoma schreineri (Schreiner, 1908) is a significant invasive species attacking plum kernels. The larvae feed in the endosperm of stone fruits, the fruits ripen prematurely and fall down. In the case of a high infestation, 90% of the fruits may drop. During the monitoring of the pest in the territory of the Czech Republic, a significant varietal preference was found. The aim of this study was to find out which varieties of plum trees are most preferred by Eurytoma schreineri. A total of 8 plum varieties were evaluated. Infestation was assessed after the harvests in 2021 and 2022 by collecting fallen fruit and during 2022 by collecting unripe fruit directly from the trees. The results show that the most preferred varieties are ‘Elena’ and ‘Tophit’.

Keywords

• plum seed wasp
• fruit attack
• varieties
• an integrated pest management