Synthesis and juvenile hormone activities of some new ether derivatives of hydroquinone

A new class of compounds, derived from hydroquinones, has been synthesised and bioassayed for juvenile hormone activity on yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor), confused flour beetle (Tribolium confusum), and mediterranean flour moth (Anagasta kuehniella). Structure‐biological activity relationships of the most significant products are tabulated and discussed. Two of the new compounds, 1, 4‐bis(5‐chloropent‐4‐ynyloxy) benzene (I) and 1‐(5‐chloropent‐4‐ynyloxy)‐4‐phenoxybenzene (II), showed outstanding activity in morphogenetic assay with T. molitor, and good field persistence. Product II is of particular interest for the control of various Homopteran species, mosquitoes, stored product pests and fire ants.