Identification of a sex pheromone from male yellow mealworm beetles, Tenebrio molitor

J Chem Ecol. 2005 Nov;31(11):2721-30. doi: 10.1007/s10886-005-7622-x. Epub 2005 Oct 25.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Acetates / analysis*
  • Acetates / isolation & purification
  • Acetates / pharmacology
  • Animals
  • Female
  • Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
  • Male
  • Pentanes / chemistry
  • Sex Attractants / chemistry
  • Sex Attractants / isolation & purification*
  • Sex Attractants / pharmacology
  • Sexual Behavior, Animal*
  • Tenebrio / chemistry*
  • Tenebrio / physiology

Substances

  • 3-dodecenyl acetate
  • Acetates
  • Pentanes
  • Sex Attractants
  • pentane