New Synthetic Lures for the Male Melon Fly

Abstract

Several para-substituted derivatives of 4-phenyl-2-butanone (I) have proved to be powerful attractants for the male melon fly (Dacus clucurbitae). These compounds, unlike anisylacetone, heretofore the best lure, attract even newly emerged flies. The most potent analog is 4-(p-acetoxyphenyl)-2-butanone (II), which also strongly attracts Dacus ochrosiae males.