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Updated: Apr 28, 2026
11:54
Real-Time Proxy-Control of Re-Parameterized Peripheral Signals using a Close-Loop Interface
Published on: May 8, 2021
4.2K
Pheromonal control: reconciling physiological mechanism with signalling theory
Marianne Peso1, Mark A Elgar, Andrew B Barron
1Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Building E8A, Eastern Road, North Ryde, New South Wales 2109, Australia.
Summary
Pheromones are chemical signals that influence behavior but don't necessarily control fitness. Honest pheromonal signals can explain fitness reductions when they reflect disadvantageous social environments.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Ecology
- Animal Behavior
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Pheromones are intraspecific chemical signals influencing receiver behavior and physiology.
- The concept of 'pheromonal control' is debated against evolutionary signal theory.
- Distinguishing proximate and ultimate control is crucial for understanding pheromonal effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the meaning of 'pheromonal control' in an evolutionary context.
- To explore ecological conditions supporting pheromonal control.
- To differentiate between proximate and ultimate control of pheromone effects.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical discussion based on signal evolution theory.
- Analysis of pheromonal control concepts.
- Distinction between physiological and fitness-level effects.
Main Results:
- Pheromonal control of receiver physiology does not equate to control of receiver fitness.
- Manipulative pheromonal signals negatively impacting receiver fitness are evolutionarily unstable.
- Pheromones can be honest signals of social environments, leading to adaptive receiver responses.
Conclusions:
- Pheromonal effects on physiology are distinct from effects on fitness.
- Evolutionary stability requires honest signaling, even when it leads to reduced receiver fitness.
- Adaptive responses to pheromone-communicated social environments explain signaling systems.
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