[Biochemistry of the evolutive cycle of Triatoma infestans (vinchuca). V. Volatile fatty acids emission].

Abstract

The composition of the volatile fatty acids emitted by Triatoma infestans of both sexes was studied. They were constituted by a mixture of the acids acetic, propionic, butyric, isobutyric, isovaleric, valeric and traces of isohexanoic and octanoic. Acetic acid was predominant followed by isobutyric and then by propionic acid. The other fatty acids are minor constituents. When acetic acid was discounted, the remaining composition was similar to the volatile fatty acid distribution pattern of Brindley gland. Both sexes showed a similar composition and therefore discard the possibility that they may function as sexual pheromones.