Evaluating the Trapping Potential of <i>Rosa damascena</i> and Phenylacetaldehyde for <i>Paranthrene diaphana</i>

ABSTRACT Paranthrene diaphana Dalla Torre and Strand (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) is a diurnal clearwing moth that has become a notable pest in various regions of Iran, particularly in Tehran. This species poses significant threats to trees in Salicaceae , including weeping willow, Salix babylonica L., and the genus poplar, Populus . This study investigates the behaviors of P. diaphana , specifically its attraction to phenylacetaldehyde, acetic acid, and inflorescence essential oils of Rosa damascena Mill ( Rosaceae ). The assessment was conducted using a wind tunnel and a Y‐glass tube olfactometer to observe the insect's reactions. Additionally, the attraction of P. diaphana to flowers of R. damascena was evaluated in controlled cage experiments. Essential oil compounds from R. damascena were also identified during this research. The findings revealed that both virgin and mated females, as well as virgin males, exhibited attraction to the essential oils of R. damascena and phenylacetaldehyde. Notably, mated individuals were significantly more drawn to these substances compared with virgin ones. Furthermore, the attraction to R. damascena essential oils and phenylacetaldehyde was notably enhanced under light conditions. Compounds identified within the essential oils of R. damascena include phenylethyl alcohol (a precursor of phenylacetaldehyde), beta‐citronellol, benzene, 1,2‐dimethoxy‐4‐(2‐propenyl), hexadecanoic acid, 6‐octadecenoic acid, 9,12‐octadecadienoic acid (Z, Z), 8‐octadecenoic acid, and 1,2‐benzenedicarboxylic acid. The presence of phenylacetaldehyde is likely a significant factor contributing to the attraction of P. diaphana to R. damascena essential oils. Lastly, further research is warranted to explore the potential of using phenylacetaldehyde and R. damascena as bait and trap plants for monitoring and managing the population of P. diaphana in field conditions.