What is the role of pheromone traps in pest management?

Pheromone traps play a critical role in pest management by monitoring pest populations and luring specific pests for control. These traps utilize synthetic versions of the natural chemicals called pheromones that insects use for communication. By mimicking these pheromones, the traps can attract target pests, allowing farmers and pest management professionals to assess the presence and quantity of pest populations in a given area.

The data collected from these traps provides valuable insights into pest behavior, seasonal patterns, and population dynamics, which are essential for implementing effective Integrated Pest Management strategies. By knowing when and where pests are most active, practitioners can make informed decisions about whether interventions are necessary and what type of control measures would be most appropriate.

The other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of pheromone traps. They are not used for decoration, do not monitor weather patterns, nor do they assist in selling agricultural products. Instead, their primary function is crucial for effective monitoring and control of pest populations within an ecosystem.