Caeliferins

Definition

A class of fatty acid-amino acid conjugates found in the oral secretions of certain grasshoppers and other insects that induce volatile organic compound release in plants.

Etymology

Named after the suborder Caelifera, to which grasshoppers belong.

Example

Caeliferins are thought to play a role in plant defense against herbivory by attracting natural enemies of the herbivores.

Related Terms

• Glutamine
• Glutamic acid
• Fatty acid amides
• Herbivory
• Plant defense

Usage Notes

Caeliferins are structurally distinct from volicitin and other known elicitors, but they share the ability to trigger plant defenses.