(1S,2R,4S,5S)-angelicoidenol-2-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside--a moose deterrent compound in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.)

Hydrophilic extracts of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) twigs have been investigated for palatability to moose in feeding experiments. The predominant repellent effect was observed from the 2-O-beta-D-glycopyranoside of the monoterpene (1S,2R,4S,5S)-angelicoidenol. Of other isolated and tested substances, only taxifolin-3'-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside had a deterring effect. One fraction--containing mainly aliphatic compounds--also had a strong effect, but the effect was lost after further fractionation. Tannin-containing fractions had no effect. Angelicoidenol glucoside has not previously been reported from P. sylvestris. The results are discussed in view of phenols as defense compounds.