Rice volatiles play a crucial role in mediating resistance to the brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål, Hemiptera: Delphacidae), a major pest of rice crops. In this study, we analyzed secondary metabolites from rice plants to identify compounds associated with insect behavior. A total of 31 volatile metabolites were detected, among which 16 differed significantly between 51 resistant or susceptible varieties. Fifteen volatiles were more abundant in susceptible plants, while one was enriched in resistant varieties. Electrophysiological (EAG) and Y-tube olfactometer assays revealed that both male and female adults exhibited positive chemotaxis toward five volatiles: Cyclohexanone, 2,2,6-trimethyl-; 3-Cyclohexen-1-one, 3,5,5-trimethyl-; (+)-Isomenthol; Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, methyl ester; and 2-Methoxy-4-vinylphenol. In contrast, male adults were repelled by Benzaldehyde, 3-ethyl-, and 3-Buten-2-one, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl)-. These results indicate that characteristic volatiles serve as functional cues for host selection and may act as phytochemical markers for assessing rice resistance. The findings provide new insights into plant–insect chemical interactions and suggest potential strategies for environmentally friendly pest management, including the use of attractant- or repellent-based approaches and breeding for optimized volatile profiles to control N. lugens.
Yang et al. (Fri,) studied this question.