Brindley's gland exocrine products of <i>Triatoma infestans</i>

Abstract

Volatile exocrine products of the metathoracic Brindley's glands in Triatoma infestans (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) were obtained by dissection and by sampling the air passed over agitated live adults. Isobutyric acid was the main component in the glands, together with isobutyl, isoamyl and amyl alcohols, 2-phenylethanol and other carboxylic acids and esters. Isobutyric acid, isobutyl, isoamyl and amyl alcohols and ester were also found to be emitted into the air, apparently for defence. No volatile products were detected in the metasternal glands.