Chemical substances produced and released into the environment by an animal, especially a mammal or an insect, affecting the behavior or physiology of others of its species are a form of communication. These secreted or excreted chemical factors trigger a social response in members of the same species. An example is the release of chemicals by certain insects to attract mates or signal danger.
The study of these chemical signals is relevant to understanding social behavior, mate selection, and communication within species. Historically, research has focused on insects and other animals, but the potential role of these factors in human behavior continues to be a subject of scientific inquiry. Understanding these signals can provide insights into evolutionary biology, animal behavior, and potentially, some aspects of human interaction.
