Identification of a sex pheromone from male yellow mealworm beetles, Tenebrio molitor.
The sex pheromone released by the adult female Tenebrio molitor, 4-methyl-1-nonanol, is well known. In addition, there is evidence that adult males release a pheromone that attracts females. The purpose of the present study was to isolate and identify male-released pheromone(s). Emissions from virgin adult males and females were collected on filter paper and extracted with pentane. Extracts were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. One male-specific compound was detected and identified as (Z)-3-dodecenyl acetate (Z3-12:Ac). In arena bioassays, E3-12:Ac was attractive to females only, at 1 and 10 microg doses. E3-12:Ac was also attractive to females at a 10-microg dose. The presence of both male and female pheromones, each attracting the opposite sex, may contribute to maintaining a high-density population of both sexes.
Bryning
Gareth P
GP
Central Science Laboratory, Sand Hutton, York YO41 1LZ, UK. g.bryning@csl.gov.uk
Chambers
John
J
Wakefield
Maureen E
ME
D000085:Acetates / Q000032:analysis* / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000494:pharmacology; D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D008401:Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; D008297:Male; D010420:Pentanes / Q000737:chemistry; D012724:Sex Attractants / Q000737:chemistry / Q000302:isolation & purification* / Q000494:pharmacology; D012726:Sexual Behavior, Animal; D013712:Tenebrio / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000502:physiology
C510859:3-dodecenyl acetate; D000085:Acetates; D010420:Pentanes; D012724:Sex Attractants; C033353:pentane