Journal of Environmental Biology

First report on the structural and functional aspects of androconial gland in Galleria mellonella and Achroia grisella

M.K. Saini¹, L. Marwaha¹*, J. Singh² and N. Kapahi¹     

¹Department of Zoology School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara,-144 411, India

²Department of Entomology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 001, India

Received: 03 April 2024                   Revised: 28 August 2024                   Accepted: 03 October 2024

*Corresponding Author Email : lovleenmarwaha@gmail.com                     *ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5175-2590

Abstract

Aim: This research aims to provide the first comprehensive analysis of the anatomical and functional characteristics of the androconial glands in the Greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella L.) and the Lesser wax oth (Achroia grisella F.). The study seeks to investigate the morphology, dimensions, and chemical composition of androconial glands in these two Lepidoptera species.

Methodology: A range of analytical techniques was employed, including Stereomicroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (ATR-FTIR), and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).

Results: Stereomicroscopy and SEM revealed the presence of an oval, bulb-shaped pheromonal glands on the mesowing of both species. Dimensional analysis showed that the and roconial gland in G. mellonella was 1.33 μm long and 4.74 μm wide, while in A. grisella it ranged from 1.23 to 2.33 μm. FT-IR analysis of the wings identified characteristic peaks at 1538.30, 1645.25, 2284.44, 2923.51 and 3275.28 cm^-1, corresponding to the presence of alkanes, alcohols and carboxylic acids. GC-MS analysis identified two previously unreported compounds in male G. mellonella: heptadecane and heneicosane. Additionally, cis-9-hexadecenal was identified as a novel compound in male A. grisella.

Interpretation: The findings of this study, provides valuable insights into managing wax moth infestations through pheromone-based strategies. Male wax moth pheromones can be effectively utilized as a tool, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.

Key words: Androconial gland, Achroia grisella, Galleria mellonella, Lepidoptera, Pheromone

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