Data from: Species distribution models of the Spotted Wing Drosophila (Drosophila suzukii, Diptera: Drosophilidae) in its native and invasive range reveal an ecological niche shift

The Spotted Wing Drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) is native to Southeast
Asia. Since its first detection in 2008 in Europe and North America, it
has been a pest to the fruit production industry as it feeds and oviposits
on ripening fruit. Here we aim to model the potential geographical
distribution of D. suzukii. We performed an extensive literature review to
map the current records. In total, 517 documented occurrences (96 native
and 421 invasive) were identified spanning 52 countries. Next, we
constructed three species distribution models (SDMs) based on occurrence
records in: 1) the native range (SDMnative), 2) the invasive range in
Europe (SDMEurope) and 3) a global model of all records (SDMglobal). The
models aimed to investigate, whether this species will be able to occupy
additional ecological niches beyond its native range and expand its
current geographic distribution both globally and in Europe. The SDMs were
generated using Maximum Entropy algorithms (Maxent) based on present
occurrence records and bioclimatic variables (WorldClim). Predictions of
habitat suitability vary greatly depending on the origins of occurrence
records. According to all models, precipitation and low temperatures were
key limiting factors for the distribution of D. suzukii, which
suggests that this species requires a humid environment with mild winters
in order to establish a permanent population in its invasive range.
Several regions in the invasive range, not presently occupied by this
species, were predicted highly suitable, especially in northern Europe,
suggesting that D. suzukii is not occupying its full fundamental niche
yet. Synthesis and applications. Based on these models of potential
geographic distribution of the Spotted Wing Drosophila (Drosophila
suzukii), we show a shift in the ecological niche in D. suzukii
populations, emphasizing the importance of using presence and local
environmental data. Further investigation regarding new occurrences is
recommended to secure optimal pest management. Despite a continuing
expansion, many countries still lack proper surveillance schemes, and we
urge policymakers to initiate appropriate management programs.