Chemistry of pheromonal and defensive secretions in the nymphs and the adults ofDysdercus cingulatus Fabr. (Heteroptera, Pyrrhocoridae).

The exocrine secretions from the nymphs and the adults of both sexes inD. cingulatus were chemically investigated. Seven compounds were identified in the anterior glands, and eleven in the median dorsoabdominal glands of nymphs and adults of both sexes. Fifty-five compounds were identified in the defensive glands (34 in posterior dorsoabdominal glands ofnymphs and 21 in metathoracic glands of adults), and six in the sternal glandular epithelium of the males. The biological function of the glandular secretions and of their identified compounds were investigated and are discussed.