Coriander Derived E-2-Decenal Repels Fall Armyworm through Dedicated Olfactory Coding Involving SfruOBP13

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Entomology
• Chemical Ecology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a major invasive pest globally.
• Current management relies heavily on chemical pesticides, necessitating sustainable alternatives.
• The push-pull strategy offers an environmentally friendly approach to pest control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the repellent properties of coriander against Spodoptera frugiperda.
• To identify the specific volatile compounds responsible for the repellent effect.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms of Spodoptera frugiperda's response to these compounds.

Main Methods:

• Adult oviposition assays
• Larval feeding trials
• Electrophysiological recordings
• Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis
• Odorant-binding protein (OBP) identification

Main Results:

• Coriander and its volatiles demonstrated significant repellent activity against Spodoptera frugiperda.
• E-2-decenal was identified as the primary repellent volatile compound in coriander.
• SfruOBP13 was identified as a key odorant-binding protein involved in detecting E-2-decenal.

Conclusions:

• Coriander volatiles, particularly E-2-decenal, can be utilized for managing Spodoptera frugiperda.
• Understanding the molecular basis of insect olfaction provides a foundation for novel pest control strategies.
• These findings contribute to the development of sustainable, behavior-based management of this invasive pest using plant-derived semiochemicals.