Why Do Flies Release Pheromones?
WouterMolecular phylogeny has revealed that pheromones are chemical signals that elicit a specific reaction in their receivers. These signals can be used to either evoke stereotyped behaviors or initiate a developmental process. Some pheromones have both of these effects. All sorts of molecules have been identified as pheromones. They can be produced by insects and can be sent by wind currents or placed on the antenna or nose of the target animal.
The composition of these compounds differs in different flies. Female fruit flies emit approximately 2.4 nanograms of pheromones per hour. Female fruit flies have the capability to learn the odor profiles of different age classes, which enables them to display an odor profile that is appropriate for a particular social context.
Pheromones have a significant role in mating. Male moths of the silkworm family can travel nearly 30 miles to mate with a female based on their pheromone signature. In addition, queen honeybees secrete a glandular substance that coordinates nearly all of their workers’ activities. In some species, non-development of worker ovaries in female flies can inhibit pheromone production.
Pheromones are a key factor in mating, which is why fungi can make female flies more desirable to male flies. These fungi also produce pheromones that attract male flies to the carcasses of dead females.
