Exploiting semiochemicals in insect control

The present situation and future prospects for the use of semiochemicals fo r insect control is reviewed, with particular reference to the work being c arried out at IACR-Rothamsted. The techniques used to identify pheromones a nd other semiochemicals, and the types of compound found in various insect classes, are described. The effects of such compounds on pests, their preda tors and other members of the ecosystem are considered in relation to the d evelopment of control strategies such as 'push-pull' or stimulo-deterrent d iversionary strategies (SDDS). (C) 1999 Society of Chemical Industry.