Verification and Evaluation of Male-Produced Pheromone Components from the Citrus Long-Horned Beetle, Anoplophora chinensis (Forster) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)

Simple Summary The main aim of this study was to identify antennally active pheromone components from the citrus long-horned beetle, Anoplophora chinensis, and to test them for behavioral activity. We identified three antennally active male-produced chemical components (nonanal, 4-(n-heptyloxy)butan-1-ol, and 4-(n-heptyloxy)butanal). When tested together in Y-tube behavioral assays, these three compounds were shown to be attractive to adult female A. chinensis. Pheromone production and behavior of A. chinensis are discussed in relation to other closely related Anoplophora cerambycid species. The citrus long-horned beetle, Anoplophora chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), is a highly polyphagous species native to eastern and southeastern Asia. Detection of these beetles is dependent on visual surveys, which are inefficient and labor-intensive. The identification and development of pheromone-based lures would help improve survey efforts for A. chinensis should it become established within the US. We identified three antennally active male-produced chemical components (nonanal, 4-(n-heptyloxy)butan-1-ol, and 4-(n-heptyloxy)butanal), which were then tested for behavioral activity at our USDA Quarantine laboratory. When tested together in Y-tube behavioral assays, a three-component blend of the identified compounds was shown to be attractive to adult female A. chinensis. Pheromone production and behavior of A. chinensis and other closely related Anoplophora cerambycid species are discussed in relation to mate finding and potential monitoring.