A mutated gene found in the moth genus Ostrinia could lead to a less harmful approach to pest control, new research shows.
The gene results in new pheromones being created by substituting an amino acid in an enzyme. Pheromones play a crucial role in insect life by helping with communication and mating.
Researchers believe this will allow the tailored production of pheromones for pest control, providing a less harmful method than traditional pesticides. Pheromones do not harm other animals and pose no dangers to people but are effective in altering the behaviour of harmful insects.
Read more at Lund University