Progress towards identification of a pheromone of the asparagus beetle, Crioceris asparagi (Coleoptera; Chrysomelidae)

Abstract: The asparagus beetle, Crioceris asparagi L. (Coleoptera; Chrysomelidae) has become a widespread pest of asparagus, Asparagus officinalis (asparagus). There are no known attractants for C. asparagi and much of its biology is unknown. Volatiles were collected from individual beetles and a candidate pheromone component was detected in collections from some individuals of the first generation but not the second. This compound elicited an electroantennographic response from C. asparagi and the mass spectrum indicated it is a 19-carbon hydrocarbon with four double bonds. Complete structural elucidation and synthesis are in progress.