The Growth of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) and Lasioderma serricorne (Fabricius) on Feed Media Dosed with Flavour Volatiles Found in Dry Cocoa Beans

Acetophenone, ethyl butyrate and 2-phenyl ethanol were used as additives to media on which Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) and Lasioderma serricorne (Fabricius) were cultured for 65 days. Acetophenone and ethyl butyrate had a positive impact on the weight and multiplication of the insects. The weight and rate of multiplication was higher in feed media containing acetophenone alone. The amount of the flavour volatiles added was high enough to deter the Lasioderma from feeding well, which affected their growth. This attraction to specific flavour volatiles in some stored products could be used in the formulation of effective control measures for insect pests.