3-Methyl-1-(methylthio)-2-butene: a component in the foul-smelling defensive secretion of two Ceroglossus species (Coleoptera: Carabidae)

A sulfur-containing compound causes the foul smell of the defensive pygidial gland fluid of Ceroglossus buqueti Laporte and Ceroglossus magellanicus Gehin. This compound was identified as 3-methyl-1-(methylthio)-2-butene by a comparison of its mass spectrum, and chromatographic properties with those of a chemically synthesized standard. Although a few sulfur compounds are known from insect secretions, this sulfur-bearing isoprene derivative has...