Kairomone

Pronunciation: /kai-roh-MOAN/

Category: Chemical Ecology

Singular: Kairomone

Plural: Kairomones

Definition

A semiochemical that is produced or acquired by an organism that causes a behavioral or physiological response in the receiver of a different species that is beneficial to the receiver but not to the emitter.

Etymology

Example

The kairomone released by some caterpillars attracts parasitic wasps, which lay their eggs on the caterpillar, ultimately killing it.

Related Terms

Semiochemical
Allomone
Pheromone

Usage Notes

Kairomones are often used by predators and parasitoids to locate their prey or hosts.