A Novel Long-Chained Acetate in the Defensive Secretion of Thrips

Defensive secretions of adult and larval Suocerathrips linguis (Phlaeothripidae, Thysanoptera) were found to contain a long-chained acetate, (11Z)-11,19-eicosadienyl acetate, that was not previously known to occur naturally. This substance occurred together with octadecyl acetate and other long-chained acetates. The eicosadienyl acetate repels ants and spreads on the surface of such potential predators. The mixture can provide a long-lasting surface coating.