ISSN:
1572-8889
Keywords:
Utethesia
;
male-produced pheromone
;
olfactory receptor neurons
;
sexual selection
;
electrophysiology
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Male Utetheisa ornatrixhave a pair of eversible glandular brushes (coremata) which are displayed during precopulatory interactions with the female. Earlier studies have shown that a pheromone associated with the coremata, hydroxydanaidal (HD), is derived by the males from pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) that they sequester as larvae from their foodplants (Crotalariaspp.) The PAs impart a “distastefulness” upon Utetheisathat protects both larvae and adults against predation. The receptor neurons specialized for detection of HD are housed in sensilla whose morphological features, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy, classify them as sensilla basiconica. The sensitivity and dynamic range of these receptor neurons were largely unaffected by whether the females were raised on an alkaloid-free diet or on a diet supplemented with Crotalariaseeds. Acetylation of the hydroxyl group of HD substantially reduced the activity of the molecule. None of the antennal sensilla examined contained receptor neurons sensitive to a PA (monocrotaline) or its N-oxide.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01068062
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