Abstract:  In order to research the chemical defence strategies of Achelura yunnanensis larvae, two toxic cyanogenic glycosides, i.e., linamarin and lotaustralin, were isolated and characterized from the secretions of A. yuenanensis larvae by using the chromatography technique including LC and HPLC, and spectroscopy technology. Feeding test showed that linamarin had the antifeedant activity against Tapinoma melanocephalum. We inferred that cyanogenic glycosides in the secretions of A. yuenanensis larvae are derived from the host plants Prunus cerasoides and P. majestic, and are accumulated in glands for chemical defence against natural enemies. The results of this study provide basic chemical clues for studying the coevolution of Achelura moths and their host plants.

Key words: Achelura yunnanensis;Tapinoma melanocephalum; venom; chemical defence, cyanogenic glycoside;feeding test