Synthesis and bioactivity studies of the potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) sex pheromone analogs.

BACKGROUND

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a staple food crop globally, but its production is consistently threatened by diseases and arthropod pests like the potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae). Phthorimaea operculella is often controlled by chemical applications. Sex pheromones have been used to detect, monitor, or control agricultural pests. Phthorimaea operculella sex pheromones mainly contain two chemical structures, 4E,7Z-trisadene-1-ol acetate and 4E,7Z,10Z-trisadene-1-ol acetate. However, the pheromone analogs are expected to act as mimics, synergists, antagonists, and inhibitors for pheromones and can be synthesized at a large scale.

RESULT

In this study, a total of 11 sex pheromone analogs of P. operculella were designed and synthesized. Results showed that the antennae exhibited a concentration-dependent response to sex pheromones and their analogs. Different analogs and dosages had significant effects on the electrophysiological response of the antennae. In the field trials, when used alone, A, B and B exhibited significant trapping effects in tobacco and potato fields. When used alternately with sex pheromone components, the analog B had significantly higher trapping effects in both tobacco and potato fields compared to the control, while combinations containing fluorinated analogs showed lower trapping effects.

CONCLUSION

In summary, the use of sex pheromone analogs holds great promise for integration into pest management programs. Further investigation to fine-tune dosage and duration for optimal use is still needed. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.