Summary
Chemical signals released by an animal that affect others of its species.
In depth
Examples: ant trail pheromones, queen bee substances, moth sex attractants (bombykol) detected from kilometres away, and alarm substances in fish. They are species-specific and persist in the environment.
Releaser pheromones trigger immediate behaviour (sex attractants), primer pheromones change physiology over time (queen substance preventing worker ovary development). Detection uses olfactory receptors or the vomeronasal organ.
Example: ants lay recruitment trails, and the scent decays unless reinforced.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pheromones?
Chemical signals released by an animal that affect others of its species.
Which area of biology covers Pheromones, and how advanced is it?
Pheromones is one of the 53 topics in Animal Behaviour. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Courtship, Instinct, Neuroethology.
Can you give an example of Pheromones?
Pheromone traps monitor and control insect pests.
What should I learn before Pheromones?
Pheromones is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Animal Behaviour that pair well with it include Animal Behaviour, Innate Behaviour, Learned Behaviour.
What topics are related to Pheromones?
The closest topics to Pheromones are Courtship, Instinct, Neuroethology, Communication. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Pheromones?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Pheromones. To practise the whole of Animal Behaviour, use the Animal Behaviour quiz.
How is Pheromones different from Courtship?
Pheromones: Chemical signals released by an animal that affect others of its species. Courtship: Ritualised displays that help animals select and attract suitable mates. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Pheromones step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Courtship and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Animal Behaviour quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.