Resistance-Linked Volatile Profiles of Sugarcane Varieties in Sri Lanka and their Potential for Semiochemical-based Management of Chilo sacchariphagus indicus (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Authors: Wanasinghe VKASM , Kumara ADNT* , Ranaweera GKMMK , Chanchala KMG , Hemachandra KS and Nugaliyadde L

DOI: 10.23880/izab-16000644

Volume 8, Issue 1

Abstract

The sugarcane internode borer (INB), Chilo sacchariphagus indicus (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), poses a major challenge to sugarcane cultivation in Sri Lanka. Characterizing the volatile profiles of sugarcane varieties provides crucial insights for integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, particularly identification of attractant green leaf volatiles (GLVs). These compounds have the potential to be used for the development of Semiochemical based environmentally friendly pest control products, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture in the region. This study analyzed the volatility profiles of mature leaves of five sugarcane varieties (Co 775, SL 83 06, SL 90 6237, SL 92 5588, SL 96 128) that exhibited different resistances to INB attack. Volatiles were collected using dynamic headspace sampling and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 74 organic compounds were detected, of which 28 were identified as GLV. Seven GLVs showed significant variations, including 1-hexanol, 4-methyl; (S)-3-Ethyl-4-methylpentanol; and 3-octanone. Positive correlations were observed between certain GLVs, while others showed negative correlations, facilitating the classification of cultivars into two groups based on their volatile profiles. This study represents the first record of the volatile profiles of sugarcane in Sri Lanka. The results lay the foundation for further development of Semiochemical based IPM solutions against Chilosacchariphagus indicus and provide an innovative green pest control approach for the sugarcane industry.

Keywords: Attractant; Green Leaf Volatiles; Internode Borer; Sugarcane Varieties; Repellent; Sri Lanka

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