Cuticle‐associated microbiota in <scp> <i>Bactrocera dorsalis</i> </scp> suppress fungal infection through immune and chemical defenses

Our findings revealed that cuticle-associated bacteria protect their host through complementary immune and chemical pathways. These microbiota act as an active barrier, and microbial metabolism interacts with host immune signaling. By distinguishing specific cuticle-derived effects from non-specific bacterial stimulation, this study highlighted the role of microbiota in modulating fungal susceptibility and supports their application in developing next-generation biocontrol strategies in pest management. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.