Host-seeking stimulant for parasite of corn earworm: isolation, identification, and synthesis

Science. 1971 Aug 27;173(3999):842-3. doi: 10.1126/science.173.3999.842.

Abstract

13-Methylhentriacontane has been identified in the feces and larvae of the corn earworm, Heliothis zea (Boddie), as the major constituent that triggers the short-range host-seeking response of the parasite Microplitis croceipes (Cresson). This chemical, the first found that mediates the complex host-parasite relation, could upgrade present efforts to use parasites for insect control. Bioassay of closely related compounds indicated that the structural requirements for activity are remarkably specific.