| 1 | Author | K. W. Itthohn, C. M. Naumann | Requires cookie* |
| Title | A ctive Cyanogenesis — in Zygaenids and Other Lepidoptera  | ||
| Abstract | The liberation of hydrocyanic acid by intact not damaged living insects is described as "active cyanogenesis". This phenomenon — as in contrast to "passive cyanogenesis" observed in plants, where enzyme and substrate get in contact only after tissue damage — is reported from the Zygaenidae. Quantitative data demonstrate that the Zygaenidae can increase the amount of emitted HCN upon irritation. The significance of this phenomenon as a mean of defense is discussed. | ||
| Reference | Z. Naturforsch. 42c, 1319—1322 (1987); received May 20/September 11. 1987 | ||
| Published | 1987 | ||
| Keywords | Cyanogenesis, Cyanide Respiration Defense Mechanism Zygaenidae, Lepidoptera | ||
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