Effect of terpenoids and related compounds on the oviposition behavior of the European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae).

摘要

Twenty-eight volatile plant compounds and related analogues were evaluated in separate laboratory assays for mediation of oviposition behaviours of females of Ostrinia nubilalis. The compounds were acyclic and cyclic monoterpenes or sesquiterpenes or related compounds and possessed different functional groups, chain lengths, and molecular weights. The compounds varied in their effect on O. nubilalis oviposition behaviours, ranging from deterrents to stimulants. Cyclic sesquiterpenes generally stimulated oviposition by O. nubilalis, but several acyclic sesquiterpenes deterred oviposition. Individual compounds also may be used as cues for host finding by adult O. nubilalis. It was concluded that the compounds described in this study may serve as a guide for the creative design of safe, environmentally compatible control methods for O. nubilalis, a destructive pest of many agricultural crops.