Seven benzyl-1,3-benzodioxole analogs were tested for possible effects on reproduction in females of the Mediterranean fruit fly. Single topical doses of J2581 (5-ethoxy-6-[4-methoxyphenyl]methyl-1,3-benzodioxole) and J3263 (5-methoxy-6-(1-[4-ethoxyphenyl]ethyl)-1,3-benzodioxole) were found to cause a temporary delay in ovarian growth in female medflies by 9 and 13 days respectively when compared to acetone-treated controls. Continued exposure of the analogs at the target site(s) appears to be necessary for more permanent effects. Nurse cell development appears not to be affected, but oocyte growth and subsequent egg production and egg hatch were significantly reduced. Methoprene treatment appeared to obviate the effect of J2581 in arresting ovarian growth.
