The Venom Compound N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide Attracts Several Polistes (Fuscopolistes) Species (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)

Polistes paper wasps in the Fuscopolistes subgenus (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) can be serious pests when they swarm at tall man-made structures. Chemical attractants may be useful to trap such paper wasps when they achieve pest status. Polistes venom has been shown to elicit a variety of behavioral responses in congeneric wasps, making it a source for potential chemical attractants. The compound N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide is a principal volatile component in the venom of many female vespid wasps, including numerous Polistes species. We report the presence of N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide in autumn gynes of Polistes metricus Say, Polistes bellicosus Cresson, and Polistes dorsalis (F.), as well as workers of Polistes aurifer (Saussure), P. bellicosus, P. metricus, and P. dorsalis. In field tests conducted in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Washington, N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide attracted male and female P. aurifer and P. metricus, as well as male P. dorsalis and P. bellicosus. Thus, N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide may be a useful lure for trapping these paper wasps in pest situations.

MOOCs as 'chemical attractants'

This study explores the outcomes of a chemistry MOOC, delivered on two occasions through the FutureLearn platform. Learner background and course feedback, including managing the expectations of potential participants, course facilitation, the importance of having a strong presence on the forums and the tutor having a ‘face’, is explored. The findings will be especially relevant to practitioners interested in learning more about how MOOCs could contribute to a university strategy for internationalisation, widening participation and public engagement. It adds to the growing literature on an educator’s experience, providing an insight into the rewards and challenges of teaching in MOOCs, and aims to encourage and support other higher education providers considering developing related online courses.