In conclusion, olfactory pheromones are widespread in nature and control many fundamental aspects of an insect's life. Detailed behavioral observations in the field and laboratory indicate the great complexity of most pheromone communication systems. The preliminary electrophysiological experiments on single olfactory receptor neurons that we have described here, point toward the possibility of unraveling the basic physiological mechanisms underlying these behavioral complexities. This information is directly applicable to many problem areas in chemoreception and could provide a base for the rational use of pheromones in the control of insect pests. *** DIRECT SUPPORT *** A2025171 00003