What are pheromones used for in pest management?

Pheromones are chemical substances produced and released into the environment by an individual and affect the behavior or physiology of others of the same species. In pest management, they are primarily used to attract or influence the behavior of pests. This is particularly useful for monitoring pest populations, as traps can be baited with specific pheromones to lure in insects, allowing for better population assessments. Additionally, pheromones can be used to disrupt mating patterns, as they help mislead or confuse pests by creating false signals. Utilizing pheromones effectively minimizes reliance on chemical pesticides, promoting a more sustainable approach to pest management.

Options that suggest repelling pests, providing nutrition, or demonstrating chemical resistance do not accurately reflect the fundamental function of pheromones in pest management, as these uses do not align with the biological and chemical mechanisms specific to pheromones and their role in pest behavior.