Identification of defensive compounds in metathoracic glands of adults of the stink bug Dichelops melacanthus (Hemiptera : pentatomidae)

Abstract

The contents of metathoracic glands of adults of the stink bug Dichelops melacanthus (Herniptera: Pentatomidae) were analyzed. Compounds were identified by gas chromatography (GC), coupled GC-mass spectrometry and matching retention indices and mass spectra with those of authentic samples. Tridecane was the major component followed by lesser and approximately equal amounts of (E)-4-oxo-2-hexenal and (E)-2-octenal. Other compounds identified include (E)-2-hexenal, decane, (E)-2-hexenyl acetate, undecane, (E)-4-oxo-2-octenal, dodecane, (E)-2-octenyl acetate, 1-tridecene, tetradecane and pentadecane.