Abstract: Compounds useful as cockroach attractants, the synthesis of the compounds, and methods of controlling cockroach populations with the compounds are disclosed. The compounds are pyrans having the formula: ##STR1## wherein: R.sup.1 is a methyl, ethyl, propyl, or methoxy group andR.sup.2 is a branched alkyl side chain having from 7 to 11 carbons. Preferably, R.sup.2 is a 2,4-dimethyl-substituted alkyl group. Most preferably R.sup.1 is methyl and R.sup.2 is 2,4-dimethylheptanyl. The pyrans can be used as an attractant in cockroach traps comprising, in addition to a pyran according to Formula (I) above, a support and a cockroach restraint. Alternatively, the pyran of the present invention can be combined with a biocontrol agent or an insecticide to form a cockroach control composition.

Abstract: Compounds useful as cockroach attractants, the synthesis of the compounds, and methods of controlling cockroach populations with the compounds are disclosed. The compounds are pyrans having the formula: ##STR1## wherein: R.sup.1 is a methyl, ethyl, propyl, or methoxy group andR.sup.2 is a branched alkyl side chain having from 7 to 11 carbons. Preferably, R.sup.2 is a 2,4-dimethyl-substituted alkyl group. Most preferably R.sup.1 is methyl and R.sup.2 is 2,4-dimethylheptanyl. The pyrans can be used as an attractant in cockroach traps comprising, in addition to a pyran according to Formula (I) above, a support and a cockroach restraint. Alternatively, the pyran of the present invention can be combined with a biocontrol agent or an insecticide to form a cockroach control composition.