Introduction to Pheromones and Monitoring

Insects of the same species can communicate with one another by releasing small quantities of chemical substances from their bodies into the air. These distinct "scents", called pheromones, draw other insects to the source of that attraction. Since the chemical composition of the pheromones differs from species to species, the attraction of an insect's pheromone is specific to that species alone.

Over the Years ...

Over the years, researchers have been able to chemically identify and synthesize many of these individual pheromones and as a result, it is now possible for us to "communicate" with certain insects by using these synthesized pheromones to attract and confuse insects and disrupt normal insect behaviour.

The key component of Integrated Pest Management is greater knowledge of pest behaviour and population cycles. Pheromone monitoring is an important diagnostic tool that enables us to be aware of when and where insects are present, to understand what stage of the life cycle the insects are in, and make timely decisions on the need for further treatment. Pheromone-induced mating disruption is another method of pheromone use, and has proved to be a successful tool for insect control in many different crops around the world. Increasing numbers of insects are showing insecticide resistance, and many of the commonly used insecticides are becoming less effective as a means of control. As a result, the need to find alternative control methods is now critical.

Apart from seeing improved cultural and management techniques, we can also expect to see new biological tools being developed for insect control, including pheromones, kairomones, oviposition stimulants, phagostimulants, repellents and attractants - many of which will be applied in combination. These biological methods are completely different in their action from present pesticide-based controls and require those who apply them to have a better understanding of insect behaviour. Biological tools will undoubtedly play an important role in pest management in agriculture, forestry and industrial pest control in the future.

 

 

The Value of Monitoring

It is very important

to detect the presence of insect pests as early as possible, since this allows for control measures to be taken at precisely the right moment. Pheromone monitoring is a valuable tool for early detection:

  1. It helps us identify the type of pest, when it is present and where it is present.
  2. It enables us to establish thresholds as to whether further control is necessary.
  3. It gives an accurate indicator of when spray applications should be made.
  4. It confirms the success of treatments.

Cooper Mill Ltd. Is committed to providing well-tested and up-to-date technology and equipment to help end-users achieve the best possible results in their pest management programs. We encourage you to call us if you have specific monitoring challenges and we will do our best to help you resolve them.