Cuelure

Cuelure, chemically known as 4-(4-acetoxyphenyl)-2-butanone (CAS No. 3572-06-3), is a synthetic insect pheromone used primarily as an attractant for certain fruit fly species.

Chemical Formula: C₁₂H₁₄O₃

IUPAC Name: 4-(3-Oxobutyl)phenyl acetate

CAS Number: 3572-06-3

SMILES Notation: CC(=O)CCC1=CC=C(OC(C)=O)C=C1

Chemical Properties

• Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₁₄O₃
• Molecular Weight: 206.24 g/mol
• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
• Odor: Sweet, fruity, raspberry-like
• Boiling Point: 123–124°C at 0.2 mm Hg
• Density: 1.099 g/mL at 25°C
• Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in most organic solvents (e.g., ethanol, acetone, benzene)
• Flash Point: 230°F

Uses and Applications

Cuelure is employed in agricultural pest management, particularly for monitoring and controlling fruit fly populations.

• Attractant for Fruit Flies: Specifically targets male melon flies (Bactrocera cucurbitae) and other Bactrocera species, aiding in population control and monitoring .
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Utilized in traps to reduce pesticide use by attracting and capturing male fruit flies, thereby disrupting mating cycles .
• Research Tool: Facilitates studies on insect behavior, ecology, and the development of sustainable pest control methods .