ARS | Publication request: Identification and antennal electrophysiology of ash bark volatiles for the emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)

Submitted to: Emerald Ash Borer Research and Technology Development Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: December 24, 2007
Publication Date: October 23, 2007
Citation: Cosse, A.A., Bartelt, R.J., Zilkowski, B.W., Fraser, I. 2007. Identification and antennal electrophysiology of ash bark volatiles for the emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis (Coleoptera: Buprestidae). Emerald Ash Borer Research and Technology Development Meeting.

Technical Abstract: Biologically active bark volatiles from ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) might be used as tools in monitoring the presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis. Two compounds have been identified from the volatile emissions from white ash bark. These two compounds were readily sensed by both male and female EAB antennae. Isolation and identification were based on silver nitrate/silica high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and micro-chemical reactions. The stereo chemistry was verified by nuclear magnetic resonance of samples obtained from natural plant sources. One of the compounds was identified as eremophilene, which has not been reported before. This sesquiterpene is present in trace amounts in the essential oil of the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium) and sesquiterpene-enriched Manuka oil fractions have been reported to be attractive to EAB in the field.