For what purpose are pheromones primarily used in pest control?

Pheromones play a crucial role in pest control primarily as attractants. Many pests rely on chemical signals, including pheromones, to communicate with one another, find food sources, or locate mates. In pest management, synthetic pheromones are often used to lure insects to traps or towards specific areas. This method takes advantage of their natural behaviors, making it an effective strategy for monitoring and reducing pest populations.

Using pheromones as attractants allows for targeted control, reducing the need for broad-spectrum pesticides that can harm beneficial insects and the environment. While pheromones can be involved in disrupting mating behaviors or for trapping various pests, their primary function in many pest control strategies is to attract insects to specific locations where they can be captured or monitored.