In pest management, what is the aim of using traps lured by pheromones?

The primary aim of using traps lured by pheromones is to attract specific pest species, which helps in managing their populations effectively. When pheromones, which are chemical signals released by pests to communicate with each other, are used in traps, they emulate the natural scent that attracts these pests. This targeted approach can help draw pests away from areas where they might cause damage, such as crops or stored goods, thereby minimizing infestations in these critical growth areas.

While the use of traps may incidentally capture some non-target species, that is not the main purpose of pheromone traps. The intent is more focused on monitoring and controlling specific pest populations rather than reducing competition among species. Additionally, while identifying problem pest species is a beneficial outcome of using such traps, the primary function remains aligned with pest attraction to prevent damage to valued resources.