Lignin intermediates and simple phenolics as feeding stimulants for Scolytus multistriatus

Comparative stimulation of Scolytus multistriatus feeding by tested dihydroxybenzenes and benzaldehydes showed that molecules with 1,4 substitutions on the benzene ring were most active; 1,3 and 1,2 substitutions were progressively less active. Methoxyl substitution adjacent to the 4-hydroxyl group on benzaldehydes reduced feeding and replacement of a hydroxyl by a methoxyl group on 1,2 disubstituted phenols destroyed the feeding response. Methoxyl substitution on benzaldehydes increased volatility and short-range attraction, but reduced feeding activity in the laboratory bioassays.