| abstract |
The present invention is directed to compounds useful as moth attractants and to methods for controlling populations of the tomato moth Scrobipalpuloides absoluta with these compounds. The compounds are 3,8,11-tetradecatrienyl acetates, 3,8-tetradecadienyl acetates, 3,11-tetradecadienyl acetates, and 8,11-tetradecadienyl acetates. Preferred compounds are (3E,8Z,11Z)-3,8,11-tetradecatrienyl acetate, (3E,8Z)-3,8-tetradecadienyl acetate, (3E,11Z)-3,11-tetradecadienyl acetate, and (8Z,11Z)-8,11-tetradecadienyl acetate. The compounds can be used as an attractant in moth traps comprising, in addition to the compounds, a moth restraint. Alternatively, the compounds of the present invention can be combined with a biocontrol agent or an insecticide for use as a moth control composition. Synthesis of (3E,8Z,11Z)-3,8,11-tetradecatrienyl acetate is described. |