How do pheromone traps attract pests?

Pheromone traps attract pests by using chemical signals that mimic the scents released by potential mates. These pheromones are natural substances produced by insects to communicate with each other, often for mating purposes. When the trap emits these specific chemical signals, it lures in individuals of the same species, thereby effectively targeting the pests for capture. This method leverages the innate behaviors of the insects, leading them to believe that potential mates are nearby, which causes them to come closer to the trap.

In contrast, other methods such as light traps rely on visual stimuli to attract insects, sound traps use audio signals, and colored bait may attract pests based on visual cues rather than chemical signals. These methods do not engage the specific pheromone-driven behavior that makes pheromone traps particularly effective for pest control.