ARS | Publication request: PHEROMONE COMMUNICATION IN DIORHABDA ELONGATA: BASIC BIOLOGY AND FUTURE PRACTICAL POTENTIAL

Submitted to: National Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: November 17, 2004
Publication Date: November 14, 2004
Citation: Bartelt, R.J. 2004. Pheromone communication in Diorhabda elongata: Basic biology and future practical potential [abstract]. National Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting. Abstract No. C0914.

Technical Abstract: The pheromone chemistry and biology of Diorhabda elongata will be reviewed. This species of leaf beetle is an introduced biocontrol agent for the invasive weedy tree, saltcedar. This beetle possesses a male-produced aggregation pheromone that attracts both sexes. It consists of two compounds, (2E,4Z)-2,4-heptadien-1-ol and (2E,4Z)-2,4-heptadienal. Identification and synthesis will be summarized. Reproductive males produce the pheromone, but those in overwintering diapause do not. The pheromone emitted by various strains and subspecies of D. elongata can have different ratios of the two components. Attractiveness of the pheromone under field conditions has been tested during the times of year when adult beetles are active. Three potential practical uses for the pheromone will be discussed: for monitoring the dispersal of beetle populations, for mass trapping live beetles for redistribution to other areas, and for retaining beetles at the site where they are released.