The story of the discovery of the Macadamia felted coccid (Acanthococcus ironsidei) pheromone began in macadamia orchards, when farmers in the Nelspruit and Barberton noticed significant damage to their crops. The pest was persistent, economically damaging, and the industry did not have an effective pheromone monitoring tool for it.
Insect Science’s technical manager for the area, Marnus Enslin, took on the challenge. Working closely with growers in affected areas and guided by industry experts, it became clear that while chemical controls can play an important role, their use sometimes disrupts natural predator populations. This highlighted the need for a more balanced approach that combines effective pest management with the preservation of beneficial insects. Pheromones may be a solution to this problem.
Development of a pheromone for A. ironsidei escalated when discussions occurred between Insect Science employees: Marnus Enslin, Dr Marc Bouwer, and Dr Anthony King at the International Macadamia Symposium in September 2023. Because the movement of the Macadamia felted coccid is restricted in South Africa, field-based sampling of the elusive pheromone was attempted. Results from these initial experiments hinted at the pheromone identity; however, the material at the time was insufficient for the full identification of the pheromone identity. Samples collected from virgin female insects were screened for potential pheromones by Insect Science’s analytical chemist.
Dr Bouwer identified two potential pheromone compounds in these samples. One of the compounds in the samples was subsequently proven to be a novel scale insect pheromone constituent. Both pheromone compounds were synthesized by Insect Science’s synthetic chemist Dr Divan van Greunen.
From there, the work shifted from discovery to proof. Field trials were conducted to test individual compounds and blends. Positive results were obtained, but only when certain blends were tested.
Today, this newly identified Macadamia felted coccid pheromone is patented and incorporated into Insect Science’s development pipeline. The pheromone-based innovation will soon be submitted for registration in South Africa. What began as a regional production challenge has now evolved into a structured, science-based solution with the potential to support growers wherever this pest becomes a threat. The pheromone can now be used for monitoring and can be tested for mating disruption and mass trapping. This is a great example of Insect Science’s approach to pest management: it was precise, responsible, and scientifically grounded.
This development reflects Insect Science’s broader role in agriculture. The company’s innovation stems from the intersection of research and development, manufacturing, and technical support. These fields overlap like three Borromean rings, interlinking elements that only hold together when connected; each discipline reinforces the other. This approach ensures that innovation is not just discovered, but proven, produced reliably, and practically delivered to growers.
