Evidence for Female Autodetection and Plasticity of Pheromone Response in Helicoverpa zea

This study investigated autodetection in female corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea Boddie (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), revealing that their sensitivity to conspecific pheromones is environmentally modulated. We developed an “ungrouped” rearing strategy to minimize pre‐exposure. Electroantennogram recordings showed differential responses between ungrouped (naïve) and grouped (pheromone‐pre‐exposed) females, demonstrating female sensitivity to their own pheromones, influenced by environmental history. Behaviorally, autodetection elicited spacing behavior, most pronounced in naïve females. These findings highlight that pre‐exposure can decrease peripheral sensitivity, a crucial consideration for laboratory studies and the development of effective pheromone‐based pest management strategies that account for female behavioral adaptation.