Feeding response of the silkworm, Bombyx mori, to compounds induced by UV irradiation of mulberry leaves

Irradiation of mulberry leaves with UV reduced the feeding response of Bombyx mori silkworm larvae. An organic extract of UV-irradiated leaves was fractionated and, in the acidic fraction which showed antifeedant activity, moracins C and N, known as phytoalexins, were identified. These compounds were induced by UV irradiation and affected the insect's food consumption by acting as feeding deterrents.