Evolution of pheromones

Question 1

First evolutionary step in pheromones

Answer 1

• pre-adaptation
• female produces hormones to prepare for mating
• male doesn’t have mechanism to detect

Question 2

Second evolutionary step in pheromones

Answer 2

• spying
• females still use hormones
• evolution of detection and response
• pheromonal cues (receiver benefits)

Question 3

Third evolutionary step in pheromones

Answer 3

• communication
• receivers response through pheromonal signals
• benefits both