Joseph Ringbauer and David Kang*
*USDA ARS Biological Control of Insects Resa, 1503 S. Providence Rd, Research Park, Columbia, MO, 65203 (dave.kang@usda.gov)

The invasive pest Drosophila suzukii causes significant economic losses in grape vineyards. D. suzukii carries acetic acid bacteria that are important to the development of the fly and are a source of grape sour rot in vineyards. The goal of this study is to understand the microbial interactions with the fly host and community assembly that contribute to the development of sour rot. Using ecological modeling techniques, we analyzed the microbial community structure and diversity associated with D. suzukii in vineyards to identify critical taxa within the microbiome and their potential to prevent the spread of acetic acid bacteria. Network analysis enables us to identify microbial interactions that may help prevent or mitigate sour rot in grape vineyards. This research improves our understanding of the complex ecological relationships between insects and their microbes and will ultimately lead to the development of novel strategies for sustainably controlling sour rot in grape vineyards.

Funding Support: Missouri Grape and Wine Institute