Manica rubida

Errard, C. (1994a). Development of interspecific recognition behavior in the ants Manica rubida and Formica selysi (Hymenoptera Formicidae) reared in mixed-species groups. J. Insect Behav., 7, 83-99. 

Show what further reactions are required on the initial polyketide to give 4,6-dimethyl-4-octen-3-one, an alarm pheromone of the ant Manica rubida. 

Such sesquiterpene homologues seem plentiful, particularly in ants. The three farnesene homologues from the Dufour glands of Myrmica ants are an example (Figure 6.24). Their purpose there is unknown. In the Dufour gland of the ant Manica rubida nine isomers and homologues of farnesene were found. Their function is again unknown. 

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