Analysis of secretions from scent-producing glands of brushtail possum (Trichosorus vulpecula Kerr)

Abstract

A characterization at a molecular level of the chemical composition of the secretions of the two pairs of paracloacal glands and of the sternal sebum of the brushtail possum (Trichosorus vulpecula Kerr) has been undertaken with a view to evaluating the potential of volatile "pheromone" components as species-specific attractants for use in novel baiting systems. Particular attention has been given to the respective fatty acid fractions produced by chemical hydrolysis, since these are believed to be the products of postemission microbial degradation (fermentation) of the secretions. In all instances, the highly complex distribution of the constituents present in these organic components of the secretions were shown to be virtually identical in adult males and females. A unique suite of low-molecular-weight branched-chain carboxylic acids has been shown to be produced by chemical degradation of the holocrine (oil-secreting) gland secretion. This odor signature is suggested to function as a unique "scenting-the-habitat" pheromone that might act as an attractant to all members of the species.