Journal of Applied Entomology (2019) 143, 58-68

Ângela C.F. Costa, Sócrates C.H. Cavalcanti, Alisson S. Santana, Ana P.S. Lima, Emile D.R. Santana, Thaysnara B. Brito, Rafael R.B. Oliveira, Nathália A. Macêdo, Paulo F. Cristaldo and Leandro Bacci (2019)
Formicidal activity of indole derivatives on Atta opaciceps (Borgmeier): Lethal, behavioural and locomotive effects
Journal of Applied Entomology 143 (1-2), 58-68
Abstract: The leaf-cutting ants of the genus Atta are of extreme importance for agriculture and forestry. Few active products can be employed to control these pests and, therefore, the discovery of new insecticidal products represents a fundamental strategy for its management. In this study, we evaluated the mortality, behaviour and locomotion of workers of Atta opaciceps (Borgmeier) exposed to synthesized indole derivatives. The most active compound was 4d [1-(1H-indol-3-yl)pentan-1-one] (LD₅₀ = 0.018 μg/mg), while the 4e [1-(1H-indol-3-yl)hexan-1-one] (LD₅₀ = 3.82 μg/mg) was the least active compound. These two derivatives reduced the survival of A. opaciceps over time and altered the behaviour and locomotion of these ants. This study demonstrates the potential of indole derivatives to produce new formicidal products, since, in addition to being effective, it also affects the ant's behaviour and locomotion.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Leandro Bacci

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
control - general

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Atta opaciceps		Brazil (NE)