Repellent effects of pinenes on the house fly, Musca domestica

Musca domestica, commonly known as the house fly, is capable of transmitting various diseases to humans and other animals. Many chemicals currently used to deter insect vectors of disease are coming under scrutiny due to their toxic effects on non-target species. Recent research investigating alternative insect control measures has revealed the repellency of terpenoid compounds containing α- and β- pinene against mosquitoes. Our hypothesis is that α- and β- pinene will have similar effects on the house fly. To test our hypothesis, behavioral bioassays were conducted using a fly repellometer. Groups of 20 male and female flies were exposed to filter paper impregnated with solutions of α- and β- pinene for a total of ten minutes. Fly responses (none, towards, or away from the filter paper) were recorded and analyzed. Data collected to date indicate that 25% solutions of α- and β- pinene are repellent to M. domestica. We are continuing to examine the effects of different α- and β- pinene concentrations and the effects of structurally modified compounds on fly behavior.