Genetically-mediated responsiveness of male oriental fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), to methyl eugenol affects mating competitiveness: implications for areawide management.

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.