Ipsdienol

Ipsdienol is a pheromone commonly used by several species of bark beetles. It is a chemical compound that is secreted or excreted and triggers a social response in members of the same species. Ipsdienol is primarily used for mate attraction and aggregation.

Chemical Structure and Synthesis

Ipsdienol has a chemical formula of C10H18O and is a monoterpene alcohol. It is synthesized from geranyl pyrophosphate, a common precursor in the biosynthesis of terpenes. The synthesis involves a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions, including cyclization and reduction.

Biological Role

In bark beetles, ipsdienol serves as an aggregation pheromone. Male beetles produce and release ipsdienol to attract both males and females to a suitable host tree for reproduction. The aggregation of beetles can lead to mass attacks, which can overwhelm the tree's defenses and lead to successful colonization.

Ipsdienol is also used in the insect control industry. It is used in traps as a lure to monitor or directly reduce bark beetle populations. The effectiveness of ipsdienol as a lure varies among different beetle species and populations.

Safety and Toxicity

As a naturally occurring compound, ipsdienol is generally considered safe. However, like all chemicals, it should be handled with care. There is currently no data on its toxicity to humans.

See Also

• Pheromone
• Bark beetle
• Chemical compound
• Mate attraction
• Aggregation
• Geranyl pyrophosphate
• Terpenes
• Enzyme
• Reproduction
• Insect control