Toxicity, semiochemicals

Behavior modifying chemicals, pheromones in particular, offer one of the potential alternatives for future control and management of forest Lepidoptera. These semiochemicals are generally non-toxic and highly specific for target insects, but their use in forest ecosystems is not without problems and possible limitations. 

Abstract The chapter discusses the interactions of relatively low molecular weight and largely lipophilic secondary plant metabolites with insects and some other invertebrates. This includes compounds stored within plant tissues that are toxic to insects by a range of mechanisms. It covers metabolites that are both constitutively produced and those that are induced in response to defence signalling stimuli including insect attack. Also included are volatile compounds released from plants that act as signals (semiochemicals) detected by herbivorous insects and those that interact with insects at higher trophic levels. Finally, plant to plant communication is described. 

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