Pheromones

Pheromones are substances secreted by a species that are recognized by members of the same species, serving intraspecies communication such as attraction, aggregation, or alarm. In agriculture and food storage, synthetic pheromones are exploited for pest management: pheromone traps monitor insect populations in orchards, warehouses, and processing plants, while mating-disruption techniques reduce pest reproduction without broad-spectrum insecticides. This targeted approach supports integrated pest management by lowering pesticide residues on crops and stored commodities. In food safety programs, pheromone-based monitoring provides early warning of infestations, helping protect raw materials and finished products from insect damage and contamination.