Ho, H.-Y., Su, S., Ko, C.-H., & Tsai, M.U. 2009 Identification and synthesis of the sex pheromone of the Madeira mealybug, Phenacoccus madeirensis Green.. Journal of Chemical Ecology 35(6): 724-732

Notes: Abstract: Two components were identified from aeration extracts of the virgin female Madeira mealybug, Phenacoccus madeirensis as trans-(1R,3R)-chrysanthemyl (R)-2-methylbutanoate and (R)-lavandulyl (R)-2-methylbutanoate (with a ratio of 3:1) by a combination of gas chromatography retention time matches, mass spectrometry, and microchemical tests. The structures and chirality of the compounds were confirmed by comparing with synthetic compounds. The synthetic trans-(1R,3R)-chrysanthemyl (R)-2-methylbutanoate was highly attractive to males in laboratory bioassays; the synthetic (R)-lavandulyl (R)-2-methylbutanoate was weakly attractive. No synergistic effect was observed when the mixture of the two compounds was tested. Internet link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10886-009-9649-x