Identification of an attractant for the caneborerSesamia grisescens walker (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

The composition of the sex pheromone ofSesamia grisescens was investigated using gas chromatography, electroantennograms, and field trapping. (Z)-11-Hexadecenyl acetate and (Z)-11-hexadecenol were identified in field tests as the major attractants. Trapping trials identified a 3:2 blend of these compounds as the most effective bait. Gas chromatography indicated the presence of hexadecyl acetate. (Z)-9-hexadecenyl acetate, (Z)-9-hexadecenol, and (E)-11-hexadecenyl acetate in the pheromone gland, but these compounds had no significant effect on trap catches when added to the major components. Traps baited with the major components in a 1:1 ratio caught more male moths than traps baited with virgin females.