Sources, identification, and behavioral significance of oviposition-deterring pheromones in insects

Abstract

Oviposition is a pivotal activity for female insects, significantly influencing their fitness and the survival of their offspring. Selecting an optimal oviposition site ensures the successful development of progeny and minimizes inter- and intraspecific competition. This selection process relies heavily on multimodal sensory inputs, with olfaction cues playing a central role. Among these chemical signals, oviposition-deterring pheromones (ODPs) have garnered considerable attention for their ability to modulate oviposition behaviors and facilitate both inter- and intraspecific communication. ODPs, secreted by insects from various orders such as Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Diptera, are key regulators of population density, resource competition, and ecological balance. These pheromones also assist parasitic wasps in host location, targeting eggs or larvae. Given their profound impact on insect behavior, ODPs present promising applications in pest management strategies and are expected to be used for the development of new pest control methods. This review examines the sources, chemical composition, and biological significance of ODPs across insect species and explores their potential in controlling insect populations. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.