IDENTIFICATION OF SEX PHEROMONE COMPONENTS OF THE BLACK ARMY CUTWORM, ACTEBIA FENNICA (TAUSCHER) (LEPIDOPTERA: NOCTUIDAE), AND A SEX ATTRACTANT BLEND FOR ADULT MALES

Abstract

AbstractThe sex pheromone components of the black army cutworm, Actebia fennica (Tauscher), were identified in abdomen-tip extracts from calling female moths. The primary pheromone component was (Z)-7-dodecenyl acetate. Although (Z)-11-tetradecenyl acetate was detectable only in trace quantities in the extracts, it was the major component in the best synthetic blend for attraction of male moths. The most effective synthetic blend was (Z)-7-dodecenyl acetate and (Z)-11-tetradecenyl acetate at a ratio of 1:20. No other component detected in the extracts increased trap capture of males when added to the two-component blend; however, (Z)-5-dodecenyl acetate, (Z)-7-dodecenol, and (Z)-9-tetradecenyl acetate reduced catches. This two-component blend will be useful for studying the habits of the adults and for population monitoring.