What role do pheromones play in pest management?

Pheromones play a critical role in pest management by acting as chemical signals that can attract or repel pests of the same species. These naturally occurring substances are used by insects for communication, which can influence behaviors such as mating, foraging, and territory establishment.

In pest management, pheromones are often utilized in strategies aimed at disrupting the mating processes of pests, thereby reducing their populations. For example, synthetic versions of these chemicals can be used in traps to lure male insects, which helps to control pest populations without relying solely on chemical insecticides.

The other options do not accurately reflect the function of pheromones. They are not repellents for plants, nor do they work as insecticides or enhance plant growth. Instead, their primary significance lies in their ability to manipulate the behavior of pests, making option B the most accurate and relevant choice in the context of pest management.