Chemistry, biochemistry, and physiology of insect cuticular lipids

Abstract The chemistry, biochemistry, and physiology of insect cuticular lipids are reviewed. The types of components present in cuticular extracts are described with special emphasis on the occurrence and identification of the di‐ and trimethylalkanes and the newly discovered tetramethylalkanes. The methods used in the extraction of cuticular components are discussed, including recommendations to standardize procedures. The structural elucidation of methylalkanes, particularly the mass spectral interpretation of multi‐methyl‐branched alkanes, is reviewed. The biosynthesis of cuticular lipids is discussed with emphasis on the hydrocarbon components, describing elongation reactions and the origin of the methyl branches. The effects of environment and development on cuticular lipids are reviewed.