Induction of De-alation in Virgin Female Solenopsis invicta1 with Juvenile Hormones

Topical applications of each of the naturally occurring juvenile hormones I, II, and III induced de-alation in virgin female Solenopsis invicta , whereas ecdysterone had no effect. De-alation occurred within 6–8 h following application when one ng or greater quantities of any of the 3 natural juvenile hormones were applied, with longer time periods required at lower doses. The ED50 values for juvenile hormones I, II, and III for inducing dealation within 24 h, were 0.44, 0.25, and 0.32 ng per insect, respectively. Oviposition occurred 3–6 days following JH application. De-alation was not observed in male alates following topical applications of JH.