2011 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) 1. To collect the ex situ and/or in situ volatile emission of select native and non-native oak trees (Quercus spp.). 2. To analyze collected volatile organic compounds (VOCs) via GC-MS and identify possible chemotaxonomy trends and/or chemotype identifiers of selected trees to various insect pests. 3. To identify VOCs with kairomonal behavior to select insect pests. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) To accomplish the stated objectives the following approach will be utilized by the graduate student under the mentorship of a Professor and ARS scientist. 1. Perform ex situ VOC analysis on a large portion of selected oak tree (Quercus spp.) leaves to determine general VOC emission trends. 2. Utilize the in situ small-scale collection method (collection bag, SPME) of the USDA-ARS PMR unit to acquire VOCs from select trees identified from ex situ analysis. 3. Separate and identify collected VOCs via GC-MS analyses. 4. Develop a chemotaxonomic tree based upon trends of identified VOCs and herbivore damage. 5. Utilize electrophysiological and/or behavioral bioassays to determine kairomonal activity. Documents NFCA with UC Davis. 3.Progress Report All volatile collections have been performed, the volatiles separated and identified via gas chromatography mass spectrometry GC-MS, and the data are currently being analyzed.