Sex pheromone of the cranberry root grub Lichnanthe vulpina

J Chem Ecol. 2006 Aug;32(8):1663-72. doi: 10.1007/s10886-006-9100-5. Epub 2006 Jul 22.

Abstract

The cranberry root grub Lichnanthe vulpina (Hentz) (Coleoptera: Glaphyridae) is a pest of cranberries in Massachusetts, reducing yield and vine density. (Z)-7-Hexadecenol and (Z)-7-hexadecenal were identified from the female effluvia collection by gas chromatographic-electroantennographic detection and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The double-bond position was confirmed by dimethyl disulfide derivatization. Both compounds were tested in the field, each alone and as blends of the two. Each compound alone captured males; however, (Z)-7-hexadecenol alone captured significantly more males than did (Z)-7-hexadecenal alone. The addition of varying amounts of (Z)-7-hexadecenal to (Z)-7-hexadecenol did not statistically affect male capture. Flight activity of the cranberry root grub may be monitored with traps baited with rubber septa containing 300 microg of (Z)-7-hexadecenol. A test of trap vane colors indicated that traps with green or black vanes maximized target male catch while minimizing nontarget catch of important cranberry pollinators.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bees
  • Coleoptera / chemistry*
  • Coleoptera / drug effects
  • Color
  • Female
  • Larva / chemistry*
  • Male
  • Pest Control, Biological / methods*
  • Sex Attractants / administration & dosage
  • Sex Attractants / analysis*
  • Sexual Behavior, Animal / drug effects
  • Vaccinium macrocarpon / parasitology*

Substances

  • Sex Attractants