Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Pheromones are chemical substances produced and released by animals to communicate with others of the same species. They play crucial roles in behaviors such as mating, foraging, and social organization.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Pheromones are essential for communication among many arthropods, including insects like ants and bees.
There are different types of pheromones including alarm pheromones, sex pheromones, and trail pheromones.
Pheromone reception is often mediated by specialized sensory organs such as antennae in insects.
They can influence a wide range of behaviors from attracting mates to marking territory.
In some species, pheromones can even trigger developmental changes or physiological responses.
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Related terms
Ecdysis: The process of molting or shedding an outer layer, commonly seen in arthropods.
Sensilla: Tiny sensory organs found on the exoskeletons of arthropods used to detect environmental stimuli.
Exoskeleton: A rigid external covering that provides both support and protection to arthropods.