Response specificity of male moths to multicomponent pheromones

Research on numerous species of moths (Lepidoptera) has shown that the sex pheromones released by females for the purpose of attracting males to mate are multicomponent blends of chemicals. These pheromones serve as species-specific signals, and a major effort in pheromone research has been devoted to determining those factors that influence and control male response specificity. In this paper we review a series of studies conducted over the past 15 years designed to address the problems associated with measuring the sensitivity of males to blend composition and the influence of individual pheromone components on the active space of the pheromone. Emphasis is placed not only on what has been learned, but also on the changes in methodology that have occurred with advances in analytical procedures, and the importance of a close dialogue between those involved in chemical and behavioral studies.