Diversity of detoxification pathways of ingested ecdysteroids among phytophagous insects.

The metabolic pathways of ingested ecdysteroids have been investigated in three insect species, the aphid Myzus persicae and two Lepidoptera, Plodia interpunctella and Ostrinia nubilalis. M. persicae produces mainly a 22-glucoside conjugate, whereas P.

Within-species variability of the response to 20-hydroxyecdysone in peach-potato aphid (Myzus persicae Sulzer).

Phytoecdysteroids have been proposed as new tools for controlling crop pests because of their endocrine disruption and deterrent effects on insects and nematodes. There is increasing evidence of variability between taxa in sensitivity to phytoecdysteroids, but the genetic variability of this sensitivity within species is unknown. However, knowledge about this intraspecies variability is required for predicting evolution of the pest's response to new control methods.

[Mevalonolactone: a volatile compound produced by Psammotettix alienus (Dhb)].

The interaction between the aphid Rhopalosiphum padi (L.) and the leafhopper Psammotettix alienus was investigated in the laboratory. The leafhoppers, when physically separated from aphid but with a common air supply, caused a reduction in aphid offspring production.