Controlled Release of Insect Pheromones: Material Innovations for Precision Pest Control

doi:10.16409/j.cnki.2095-039x.2025.07.007

Abstract

Abstract: With the increasing adoption of green farming principles, insect pheromone regulation strategies, grounded in the principles of chemical ecology, have become key components of integrated pest management (IPM). The ultra-high efficacy, environmental compatibility, and target specificity make them vital for reducing chemical pesticide use, promoting agricultural sustainability, and protecting ecosystems. However, the inherent characteristics of pheromone molecules, such as high volatility, significant photosensitivity, and thermal lability, create technical bottlenecks in field applications, leading to short duration of action and variable effectiveness. The use of pheromone slow-release carriers presents a highly effective solution to these challenges, representing one of the most promising research directions in pheromone technology. This article summarized traditional release technologies and innovative domestic and international research, focusing on analyzing the controlled-release mechanisms and application potential of novel systems like microencapsulation, electrospun fibers, organic-inorganic hybrid materials, and photosensitive-responsive materials. And it also critically examined current limitations in areas including coordinated release regulation, environmental adaptability, and practical field implementation, with the aim of providing theoretical support for advancements in environmentally sustainable pest control technologies.

Key words: pheromone, slow-release carrier, pest control

CLC Number:

S433

LI Guoqiang, JIA Caixia, WU Wenguang, CAO Lin, LI Man, LIU Juhuan, LIU Zuochun, SU Nan, JING Xiaoyuan. Controlled Release of Insect Pheromones: Material Innovations for Precision Pest Control[J]. Chinese Journal of Biological Control, 2026, 42(2): 448-463.

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