(–) Methyl n-tetradeca-trans-2,4,5-trienoate, an allenic ester produced by the male Dried Bean beetle, Acanthoscelides obtectus(Say)
Abstract
A substance produced by the male Dried Bean beetle has been characterised as methyl n-tetradeca-trans-2,4,5-trienoate. This is thought to be the first example of an allenic compound occurring in the animal kingdom. It is presumed to be a sex attractant.