Optimization of a chemical attractant for Epicometis (Tropinota) hirta Poda

Abstract

In field trapping tests in Hungary cinnamyl alcohol (3-phenyl-2-propen-1- ol) and trans-anethole [(1-methoxy-4-(1-propenyl)benzene)] attracted significantly more adult Epicometis (Tropinota) hirta (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae) when presented together in the same bait compared to the single compounds Best attraction was recorded by a 1:1 mixture. Addition of other common floral scent compounds, i.e. 3-methyl eugenol, 4-methoxy-cinnamaldehyde, anisylacetone, β-ionone, cinnamyl acetate, cinnamic aldehyde, eugenol, indole, 2-phenylethanol or phenylacetaldehyde did not influence catches. The binary cinnamyl alcohol/trans-anethole bait described in this study is recommended for use in traps of E. hirta for agricultural purposes.