Genetically-mediated responsiveness of male oriental fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), to methyl eugenol affects mating competitiveness: implications for areawide management
Journal
Pest Management Science
ISSN
1526-498X
Date Issued
2026-02-06
Author(s)
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Methyl eugenol (ME) is widely used in the male annihilation technique (MAT) for controlling Bactrocera dorsalis. However, the emergence of ME non-responsive males in the field may threaten MAT efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the reproductive performance of ME non-responsive males to better understand their potential impact on control strategies. RESULTS: We assessed mating competitiveness among four male groups, including ME-responsive and ME non-responsive strains under different ME treatments. Females preferred ME-exposed and ME-fed males, with significantly longer mating durations and higher fecundity observed in the ME-exposed group. However, the highest hatching rate was found in the ME-deprived group. ME non-responsive males showed comparable mating and reproductive performance to ME-fed males. CONCLUSION: Our findings demonstrate that ME non-responsive males retain reproductive capacity comparable to ME-fed males and may persist in the field under MAT pressure. While ME exposure enhances male competitiveness, excessive field concentrations may inadvertently benefit males without trap entry. These insights highlight potential limitations of ME-based MAT and suggest the need to reassess its long-term efficacy in B. dorsalis management. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
Subjects
attractant
mating opportunity
non-responsiveness
reproductive potential
Publisher
John Wiley and Sons Ltd
Description
CODEN PMSCF
Type
journal article