Corpus allatum control of sex pheromone production and calling in the female brown-banded cockroach, Supella longipalpa (F.) (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae)

Abstract

The neural and endocrine regulation of pheromone production and release (calling) was investigated in adult female Supella longipalpa. Virgin adult females initiated pheromone production and calling at 4 and 6.15±0.91 days, respectively. Allatectomy of teneral females prevented pheromone production and calling. Both the production and release of pheromone were restored by implantation of active corpora allata or by treatment with a juvenile hormone analogue. Neither nymphal nor adult ovariectomy eliminated pheromone production or calling. The onset age of pheromone production was advanced significantly by both topical juvenile hormone analogue treatment and by transection of the nervi corporis allati I. Denervation of the corpora allata also advanced the onset age of calling. Hence, it is concluded that the corpora allata and juvenile hormone, either directly or indirectly, regulate the onset of both pheromone production and calling in female S. longipalpa.