Response of the Bioelectric Potential within Antenna of Mamestra Brassicae against Sex Pheromone

Abstract

When a male moth perceives sex pheromone of a female moth, the bioelectric potential is generated in its antennas. This paper discusses putative novel methods controlling moths by using antennal ability that senses sex pheromone of Mamestra brassicae for the insect control. Measuring bioelectric potential, the antenna was cut off from the head and connected to the measurement instrument by electro-encephalogram paste. The maximum lifetime of after cutting off was approximate 200 minutes. The period of interstimulus interval to avoid sensory habituation was determined and it was more than 5 seconds. The Results showed that the bioelectric potential increased according to concentration of (Z)-11-hexadecenylacetate which is a principal ingredient of the sex pheromone. The relationship between the concentration of (Z)-11-hexadecenylacetate and the response of bioelectric potential was formulated by the approximate curve. It was concluded that the emergence of the female moth would be estimated by the response of bioelectric potential in the antenna against the sex pheromone.