Influence of larval frass extracts on the oviposition behaviour of <i>Monochamus alternatus</i> (Col., Cerambycidae)

Abstract

Abstract: The oviposition behaviour and response of adult females of Monochamus alternatus to short lengths (bolts) of Pinus massoniana trunks treated with hexane extracts of larval frass of M. alternatus was investigated in the laboratory. Females gnawed significantly fewer oviposition scars, and deposited significantly fewer eggs, on extract‐treated bolts than on control bolts. These results suggest the presence of a possible oviposition deterrent in larval frass of M. alternatus . Hexane extracts of larval frass were analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and α ‐pinene, β ‐pinene, 3‐carene, limonene, longifolene and butylated hydroxytoluene were identified. Experiments with synthetic mixtures indicated that a mixture of monoterpenes and butylated hydroxytoluene exhibited oviposition‐deterring activity.