Chemical Ecology of Aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

Aphids are widespread insects considered as crop pest throughout the world. In order to control them, different techniques are known. The study of aphid-related semiochemicals is one topic recently studied in integrated pest management, used to control aphid outbreaks. These semiochemicals include those involved in intraspecific communication, in communication among different trophic levels, those which attract or repel aphids, or those which enhance the efficiency of aphid natural enemies. This book chapter summarises the recent findings on aphid chemical ecology, from the discovery of molecules of interest, to their use in IPM methods.