The juvenile hormone-like effect of farnesol derivatives on the pupal development of Cerura vinula L.

The two synthetic farnesol derivatives, farnesyl methyl ether and the dihydrochloride of ethylfarnesoate were found to be morphogenetically effective in a distinguishable manner in the last larval instar of Cerura vinula L. by topical application assays. The juvenile hormone-like activity of the two substances correlates with the amount of applied substances and a critical time interval to the prepupal processes. In spite of the deficiency of some prepupal processes, it is possible, that the pupal moult occurs after a long period of delay. The time lapse of the pupal development is suggested to be dependent upon some balance of the hormones of the prothoracic glands, ecdysone, and the juvenile hormone of the corpora allata.