The contents of the dorsal abdominal glands in nymphs and the metathoracic glands in adult males and females (10, 20 and 30 days old) were characterized and quantified for the stink bug, Pallantia macunaima. The major component for nymphs and adults was tridecane, with lesser amounts of other aliphatic hydrocarbons, aldehydes, oxo-alkenals and esters. The five nymphal instars showed significant differences in the proportions of compounds present, mainly between those of the first instar compared to the dorsal abdominal glands components of later instars. No significant differences were detected in the proportion of metathoracic gland components between the sexes but, between individuals of different ages, (E)-2-hexenal and (E)-2-decenyl acetate significantly decreased in adults from 10 to 20 days of age.
allomone; pheromone; gland; hemiptera; Pallantia macunaima
