Identification and field verification of the aggregation pheromone produced by predator Eocanthecona furcellata (Wolff) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

作者：Huiqin Li, Hang Zhao, Yongming Tian, Xiao Chen, C. H. Shi, Siyan Duan, Fawu Su, Junfu Yu, Wenxia Dong, Guoxing Wu, Xi Gao · 发表于：Pest Management Science · 年份：2026 · DOI：10.1002/ps.71161 · 研究领域：Hemiptera Insect Studies、Insect-Plant Interactions and Control、Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies

BACKGROUND: Eocanthecona furcellata (Wolff) is a key predatory insect that attacks pests across Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Hymenoptera. It commonly displays aggregation behavior, which is thought to provide multiple ecological benefits; however, the underlying mechanisms and potential aggregation pheromones remain poorly understood. To fill this knowledge gap, we examined the role of antennae in aggregation, analyzed the body volatiles of E. furcellata, and conducted laboratory bioassays and field trials. RESULTS: Antennae served as the main sensory organs mediating aggregation in all nymphal instars. Whole-body extracts from fifth-instar nymphs significantly attracted both male and female fifth-instar individuals. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography-electroantennogram detection (GC-EAD) identified eight compounds, among which (E)-4-oxo-2-hexenal, tetradecanal, and tridecane were verified as aggregation pheromones in laboratory tests. Field trials further validated the biological activity of these compounds. We also determined the optimal attractive range, placement height, and effective duration of these pheromones, offering critical insights for optimizing the field deployment of this natural enemy. CONCLUSION: The fifth-instar nymphs of the predatory stink bug E. furcellata produce aggregation pheromones, (E)-4-oxo-2-hexenal, tetradecanal, and tridecane, which are primarily perceived through the antennae, triggering conspecific ...