What are pheromones commonly used for in pest control?

Pheromones are a critical tool in pest control, primarily because they are used in traps to attract specific pests. These chemical signals are naturally produced by insects, and they play a role in communication within a species, particularly for mating or signaling danger. In pest management, synthetic versions of these pheromones can be synthesized and deployed in traps to lure certain pest species, making it easier to monitor and reduce their populations.

Using pheromone traps not only targets specific pest species, minimizing impact on beneficial insects but also helps in understanding pest dynamics in an area. This targeted approach leads to a more environmentally friendly pest management strategy, as it reduces the need for broad-spectrum insecticides. Therefore, employing traps with pheromones is an effective method for controlling and monitoring pest populations in agricultural and urban settings.