What are pheromone traps primarily used for?

Pheromone traps are primarily used for detecting pest populations because they exploit the natural chemical signals released by insects to communicate with one another. These signals, known as pheromones, can attract specific species of pests, allowing for the identification of their presence and population levels in a given area.

By placing these traps strategically, pest control professionals can monitor fluctuations in pest numbers and determine whether control measures are needed. This form of detection is invaluable in integrated pest management, as it helps in making informed decisions based on actual pest activity rather than assumptions.

While pheromone traps play a crucial role in detection, options pertaining to attracting beneficial insects, controlling rodent activity, and preventing structural damage are not the primary purposes of these traps. Attracting beneficial insects involves different methods and typically does not rely on pheromones that target harmful pests specifically.