Semiochemical parsimony

Category
Behavior

Definition

The phenomenon where insects utilize a single chemical compound or secretion to perform multiple functions, such as defense, communication, and regulation of behavior.

Etymology

From Latin 'parsimonia', meaning 'thriftiness' or 'economy', and Greek 'semeion', meaning 'sign' or 'signal'.

Example

In some species of insects, a single alarm pheromone can also serve to attract mates and repel predators.

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