LINAMARIN AND LOTAUSTRALIN AS THE SOURCE OF CYANIDE IN ZYGAENA-FILIPENDULAE L (LEPIDOPTERA)

1. 1. The source of cyanide in tbe moth Zygaena filipendulae L. bas been identified as the two cyanogenic glucosides, linamarin and lotaustralin. 2. 2. This appears to be the first time that cyanogenic glucosides have been found with certainty in an insect. 3. 3. The glucosides are present in amounts equivalent to up to 2% of the body weight of freshly emerged gravid female imagines whereas it is absent from the male. 4. 4. It is suggested that it occurs primarily in the eggs and that a defensive role in the adult is unlikely. © 1979.