Interaction between predatory and phytophagous stink bugs (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) promoted by secretion of scent glands

Abstract

Stink bugs (Pentatomidae) produce volatile chemical substances in the scent glands, with unpleasant odors that function as alarm and defense signals against natural enemies. The contents of the scent glands of the predatory Podisus nigrispinus and its prey, the phytophagous Euschistus heros were used to evaluate the behavioral interactions between these two insects. Quantitative and qualitative analyses of odor components were performed by gas chromatography (GC/FID and GC/MS) and behavioral response evaluated by video-tracking system. The chemical composition of the odor produced by P. nigrispinus and E. heros contains aldehydes and hydrocarbons. The chemical mixture has quantitative and qualitative component differences between species and sexes, with 20 compounds identified for P. nigrispinus and 17 compounds for E. heros. The compounds (E)-2-hexenal, hexenoic acid, (E)-2-decenal, tridecane, tetradecane, and pentadecane occur in both species, but with different amounts between males and females. The secretion of the scent gland of P. nigrispinus and E. heros produces repellent and irritant effects between species and between sexes of the same species, supporting the defensive function of these compounds. Chemical identification of the Pentatomidae scent gland compounds may influence in insect behavior cause side effects in other insects. Overall, these compounds can be a sustainable and novel source of insecticides with potential to agricultural pest control.