Exploring Bacterial Roles in Drosophila –Fungi Interactions: A Comprehensive Review

ABSTRACT Microbiomes, particularly bacteria, are known to benefit many host species, but how bacteria and fungi interact within the Drosophila microbiome is not yet fully understood. Although several studies have investigated Drosophila ‐bacteria and Drosophila ‐fungi interactions separately, the intricate ways in which bacteria modulate Drosophila ‐fungi relationships remain comparatively unexplored. This review synthesizes current understanding of how bacteria can alter Drosophila's responses to fungal cues. We explore the existing knowledge of fungal contributions to Drosophila physiology in the context of bacterial presence. A major research gap exists concerning the role of naturally associated microbes and interkingdom interactions between fungal and bacterial members of the microbiome and its impact on Drosophila biology and behaviour. Furthermore, we discuss the potential applications of leveraging the Drosophila mycobiome for the control of pest Drosophila species. Our review underscores the ecological and evolutionary significance of bacteria‐ Drosophila ‐fungal interaction and highlights the critical need for analytical research to elucidate these complex interdependencies. This understanding is critical for developing more effective and targeted strategies for managing pest fruit fly populations.