Abstract
Feeding in codling moth neonate caterpillars was inhibited by 0.67 mM and 2.24 mM concentrations of denatonium benzoate. This inhibitory effect was abolished by phospholipase C inhibitor, U-73122 and the phosphodiesterase inhibitor, Rolipram. Quinine and quinidine did not have inhibitory effects at concentrations as high as 1.64 mM and 0.43 mM, respectively. The inhibitory effect of denatonium was partially reversed in the presence of the calcium ion chelator, EGTA, at concentrations ranging from 2.5 µM to 250 µM. These results indicate that transduction of the taste of denatonium in codling moth neonates relies on signalling pathways that involve phospholipase C, phosphodiesterase and calcium ion influx into cells.
Highlights
A lepidopteran, the codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) is a major, cosmopolitan pest of apples
Effects of bitter substances on feeding commencement by codling moth neonates Only denatonium benzoate altered the time of feeding commencement in comparison to controls (Fig. 1)
We did observe a slight delay in feeding commencement on foliage treated with 1.64 mM quinine but this delay was not statistically significant (P > 0.05, ANOVA, Fig. 1)
Summary
A lepidopteran, the codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) is a major, cosmopolitan pest of apples Neonate larvae of this insect burrow into the fruit and feed inside until their development is complete. An alternative strategy proposes using botanical feeding deterrents to reduce fruit infestation by codling moth neonates Some of these deterrents are present in the foliage of plants that taste bitter to humans; Ginkgo biloba (Pszczolkowski et al, 2011), Artemisia absinthium (Durden et al, 2009), Artemisia annua (Durden et al, 2011) and Artemisia arborescens “Powis castle” (Creed et al, 2015). These findings indicate that codling moth neonates can sense bitter chemicals.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
