Recently we demonstrated that neonates of the codling moth feed on apple leaves, and monosodium glutamate (MSG) increases leaf consumption by the neonates. Stimulatory properties of MSG are maintained in presence of spinosad, and MSG increases the toxicity of commercial formulations of this pesticide [Pszczolkowski and Brown, 2002, Phytoparasitica 30(3): 243-252]. Because initial field persistence of hydrophilic MSG was not satisfactory, we initiated research on feeding stimulation by MSG- mimicking, hydrophobic substances.
In this poster, we characterize the pharmacology of apple leaf consumption by codling moth neonates by using glutamate receptor agonists. Our results suggest that MSG induces feeding via metabotropic glutamate receptors, and increases leaf consumption via ionotropic glutamate receptors. These pharmacological studies of glutamate receptors involved in codling moth neonates’ feeding behavior indicated a potential hydrophobic alternative for MSG; a broad spectrum agonist of vertebrate glutamate receptors. Preliminary results on feeding stimulation by this alternative substance are presented.
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