Chemical ecology

Chemical ecology is study of interactions among organisms, and between organisms and their environment, that involve specific molecules or groups of molecules termed semiochemicals that function as signals to initiate, modulate, or terminate a variety of biological processes. Molecules that serve in such roles typically are readily diffusible organic substances of low molecular mass that derive from secondary metabolic pathways, but also include peptides and other natural products. Chemical ecological processes mediated by semiochemicals include ones that are intraspecific (occurring within a species) or that are interspecific (occurring between species). A variety of functional subtypes of signals are known, including pheromones, allomones, kairomones, and attractants and repellents.

Some major focal points in the field of chemical ecology include:

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