The s tereochenris try of 3-bUtyl-5-(5 -hexenyl)-p yrrolizidine from populations of Monomorium antarcticum (Smith) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and its possible role as a unique taxonomic character

Abstract

The stereochemistry of (5E,8E)-3-buty1-5-(5-hexenyl)-pyrrolizidine (4) from the venom of a New Zealand Monomorium antarcticum “species” has been determined by means of micro Hofmann degradation methodology. The relationship between this compound and its commitant monocyclic pyrrolidine reflects those previously observed in other New Zealand Monomorium venoms, and can probably be regarded as a unique taxonomic character in this case.

Keywords:

• Monomorium
• ant
• venoms
• alkaloids
• pyrrolizidines
• Hofmann degradation
• taxonomy