| Abstract
| - Anacardic acid (2-hydroxy-6-alkylbenzoic acid) produced and secreted from glandular trichomes ofzonal geranium (Pelargonium × hortorum; Geraniaceae family) provides resistance to small pests(aphids and spider mites). To assess the potential bioactivity of anacardic acid against larger insectpests and to determine if an alternate mode of application (ingestion rather than the topical application)could impart resistance to pests, the effects of anacardic acid consumption on the development ofColorado potato beetle larvae were tested. Analysis of dose−response curves indicated a significanteffect on weight gain and mortality. Assessment of food preference (treated versus untreated) indicatedlarvae avoid food containing anacardic acid and have a lower feeding rate on food containing anacardicacid. On the basis of these results, it is suggested that anacardic acid, applied as a chemical sprayor through bioengineering production in crop plants, may provide a new tool in the arsenal to minimizedamage to plants caused by pests. Keywords: Colorado potato beetle; zonal geranium; anacardic acid; pest resistance
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