Kairomones
From WikiEducator
| A kairomone is an allelochemical substance produced and released by a living organism that benefits the receiver but disadvantages the donor. |
Contents
Examples
a) When Ponderosa Pine tree (Pinus ponderosa) is attacked by the Western pine beetle, it produces a terpene called myrcene. It acts synergistically with aggregation pheromones and lure more beetles to the tree. This is in contrast with the allomones which serve as feeding deterrents.
Significance
The kairomones serve as attractants, arrestants and oviposition or feeding stimulants. These are used to attract natural enemies and predators for the insect pests.
Links
The kairomone improves the fitness of the recipient and in this respect differs from an allomone. An example of this can be found in the
