ABSTRACT
Pheromones are chemicals released by one organism to direct the behavior of other members of its species. Scientists have known since the 1800s that insects are able to call a mating partner by releasing a pheromone. In 1970, when the gypsy moth pheromone, called disparlure, was identified and synthesized, the natural extract bait was replaced by the inexpensive synthetic lure. The early experiences with the gypsy moth and Medfly triggered a considerable fallout of research activities aimed at the identification and utilization of pheromones to help suppress destructive insect populations. A number of sales organizations have concurrently begun to market pheromone products to the US Government, the farmer, and even to the public. The possibility that pheromone traps can be used in the direct control of insects and thereby minimize dependence on insecticides has sparked considerable research. The chapter also presents an overview on the key concepts discussed in this book.
