What is the function of pheromones in pest management?

Pheromones play a significant role in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) by serving as chemical signals that can influence the behavior of pests. Their primary function in pest management is to attract or repulse pests, which is essential for developing effective monitoring strategies. For instance, pheromones can be employed to lure pests into traps, allowing for the assessment of pest populations and monitoring of their lifecycle stages. This information is crucial for making timely decisions about control measures.

The use of pheromones can also help in disrupting mating behaviors among pests, which reduces population numbers without resorting to chemical pesticides. Such monitoring can inform pest management strategies, ensuring that interventions are applied only when necessary, thus aligning with IPM principles that emphasize sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Additionally, while other options may suggest limitations or misunderstandings regarding the role of pheromones, the versatility and effectiveness of pheromones in both attraction and repulsion are well-established in pest management practices.