The use of auxiliary insects in viticulture is emerging as an effective tool for managing Cryptoblabes gnidiella, a pest that has become increasingly problematic in the Mediterranean region of France. Once considered a minor pest, its growing impact has encouraged researchers and growers to explore alternatives to conventional insecticide applications.
Between 2022 and 2024, trials evaluated the performance of trichograms, tiny parasitoid wasps that target and destroy the pest’s eggs. The releases were carried out 30 to 45 days before harvest, providing continuous preventive protection during a critical stage of grape production.
The strategy relies on monitoring adult pest flights and carrying out two to three releases at intervals of approximately 15 days. Results showed that Tricholine Vitis, positioned higher in the vine canopy, delivered a level of control comparable to synthetic insecticides. The approach consistently reduced larval populations and contributed to healthier grape clusters.
In contrast, T Protect Vitis, which is placed on the ground, proved more sensitive to high temperatures. This reduced its overall effectiveness and highlighted the importance of deployment methods when using biological control agents.
The findings demonstrate that trichogram releases can successfully fit within an agroecological pest management strategy. However, their effectiveness depends on adapting fungicide and insecticide programmes to protect these beneficial organisms and maximise their impact in the vineyard.
By reducing dependence on chemical insecticides, this approach can support more sustainable viticulture while maintaining effective pest control and promoting healthier grape production.
