The identification of pheromones and attractants for several species of Elateridae native to the American Midwest

Monday, November 11, 2024

12:06 PM – 12:18 PM MST

Location: Phoenix Convention Center, 126 B, PCC

Presenting Author(s)

Rachel Rusen (she/her/hers)

Phd Student
University of Illinois
Champaign, Illinois

Co-Author(s)

JM

Jocelyn Millar

University of California
Riverside, California
TM

Thomas C. McElrath

Collections Manager
Illinois Natural History Survey
Champaign, Illinois
LH

Lawrence Hanks

University of Illinois
Urbana, Illinois

Female click beetles (Elateridae) produce sex pheromones to attract their male counterparts over long distances. Through ovipositor extractions, we have been able to identify species-specific pheromone compounds for several species of elaterid. We conducted experiments using baited panel traps in two remote forest field sites to determine optimal attractant for certain species, such as the Melanotus similis, a known crop pest. Blends of several species’ attractants are being tested in the field to create a single multi-species blend with which to attract a broad swath of elaterid species. Timer trap data is aiding us in determining the time of day when the adult beeltes are active. This research aids in our understanding of elaterid pheromone-mediated interactions, which in turn inform future strategies for environmentally conscious control in agricultural setting.