干旱区生态环境知识资源中心

The Desert Locust Schistocerca gregaria (Forskal 1775) emits several volatile substances which may have a pheromonal character. Identified substances of the headspace, like phenol, veratrol, guaiacol, 1,2,3-trimethoxybenzene, benzylcyanide and a blend of these compounds, were electroantenno-graphically tested in sexually mature and immature males and females. The blend corresponded to the headspace of sexually mature, yellow coloured males.

All compounds tested evoked a significant response of the locust antenna depending on their concentration, ie there are receptors on the antennae which percept the chemicals tested. A strong reaction to the blend of the volatile substances tested was observed in immature females and males; the response, however, could not be attributed to a single compound. The additive or synergistic effects of the compounds have to be tested.