Metatranscriptome of Rhagoletis cerasi
The cherry fruit fly (Rhagoletis cerasi) devastates cherry crops globally. Current methods (pesticides) harm the environment and beneficial insects. This project seeks a more sustainable solution, biocontrol using natural enemies (entomopathogens). We determined the metatranscriptome of 317 R. cerasi individuals, both larvae and adults, to profile the fly's microbiome composition. This is a pioneering approach to cherry fruit fly control. Understanding the fly's microbiome can help us find natural enemies to control this pest, offering a safe and eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.