Gossypol as Phagodeterrent for Boarmia (Ascotis) selenaria Larvae123

Abstract

The effect of gossypol on the feeding rate and growth of larvae of Boarmia (Ascotis) selenaria Schiffermüller was investigated by the ‘Styropor method’ or by incorporating the compound in a semisynthetic diel. Styropor (foamed polystyrene) lamellae were painted with a mixture of 2% avocado leaf powder extract and 2, 1, 0.5, and 0.25% gossypol acetate. A negative correlation was found between the feeding rate on the lamellae and the gossypol concentration. Gossypol acetate incorporated in the diet strongly inhibited larval growth at 1%, was ineffective at 0.5%, and slightly phagostimulatory at 0.25%.