Increased pheromone catabolism by antennal esterases after adult eclosion of the cabbage looper moth

Summary A marked increase in pheromone hydrolysis by antennal esterases occurred 24–72 h after eclosion and was coincident with the age ofTrichoplusia ni (Hübner) males that were maximally responsive to the pheromone as indicated from previous reports. This observed hydrolytic activity was also accompanied by the appearance of 3 esterase bands in the electrophoretic patterns of the antenna. The finding thus lends support to the hypothesis that the observed pheromone catabolism is an event closely associated with the olfaction process.Employed through a cooperative agreement with the Insect Attractants, Behavior, and Basic Biology Research Laboratory, Agricultural Research, Science and Education Administration, USDA, Gainesville, FL 32604.The authors acknowledge Dr James L. Nation for his helpful comments during the course of the work.