Semiochemical
- Pronunciation
- /SEE-mee-oh-CHEM-ih-kuhl/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- Semiochemical
- Plural
- Semiochemicals
Definition
Chemical signals used by insects and other organisms for communication and perception of their environment.
Etymology
From Greek 'semeion' meaning 'a mark' or 'a signal', and 'chemical'.
Example
Pheromones are a type of semiochemical used by insects to attract mates.
Related Terms
- Communication
- Pheromones
- Allelochemicals
Usage Notes
Semiochemicals can be volatile or non-volatile and can have diverse functions in insect behavior.