Control of Pheromone Production in Moths

Abstract

Most species of moths are nocturnal in behavior, and mating often requires the production and release of a sex pheromone by the females to attract conspecific males. Moths in general are short-lived; some species eclose with mature oocytes and may not even feed during their adult life. Such species mate, lay eggs, and die within a short period of time. Based on these facts, Barth (1965) hypothesized that the cyclic production of pheromone in moths may not require hormonal regulation. However, moths often exhibit a diel periodicity of pheromone production, suggesting the requirement of some regulatory mechanisms. In nocturnal species, peak pheromone production occurs during the scotophase; the resulting avoidance of mating in daylight may reduce the risk of predation. Additionally, moths such as the corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea, may also delay production of pheromone until a suitable host is located for oviposition (Raina 1988), further suggesting the need for regulation.