In northern Greece, scientists are using a biological control method known as the Enhanced Sterile Insect Technique to reduce populations of the destructive Mediterranean fruit fly.
In a small orchard in Greece, researchers are releasing thousands of sterile male flies that have been fed a special bacterial supplement to make them more competitive in mating. When these sterile males mate with wild females, no offspring are produced, gradually reducing the pest population without the use of pesticides. The goal is to apply this method to other invasive species, such as the oriental fruit fly and peach fruit fly, which are spreading into Europe due to rising temperatures caused by climate change.
The EU-funded REACT project, involving scientists from 12 countries, is the first European field trial of this targeted method. Early results show promise, with measurable reductions in fly populations and strong support from local farmers seeking sustainable pest control solutions.
