Biosynthesis of defense-priming volatiles from Opuntia associated with cactus boring moth (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) herbivory

To further the investigation of cactus-derived volatile organic compounds as a potential control agent of the invasive cactus borer Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg), sterile root and shoot cultures as well as transformed hairy roots are being generated for the eastern pricklypear Opuntia humifusa (Raf.) Raf. The cultures are being evaluated for their ability to synthesize defense priming volatiles associated with cactus boring moths. Various concentrations of plant hormones (e.g., jasmonic acid, methyl jasmonate, and ethylene) as well as insect materials from the native, co-evolved cactus moth Melitara prodenialis Walker (e.g., labial glands, regurgitant, skin, and gut) are currently being tested as elicitors. Here we report preliminary results from the establishment of O. humifusa cultures and analysis of non-elicited and elicited samples of the tissue and culture media.