Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Pheromones are species-specific chemical-based messengers that play an important role in regulating behavioural, reproductive and social interactions among domestic animals. It provides advances in understanding applications and functions of pheromones in animal reproduction and management. This deliberate review paper summarizes the sources, classification, mechanism of perception, functions and also emerging applications of pheromones in domestic animal reproduction and reproductive biotechnologies. Pheromones are secreted through faeces, urine, vaginal secretions, saliva, milk in animals etc but varies in different species. They are primarily detected by the vomeronasal organ. Based on their biological activities, pheromones are classified as territorial, alarm, aggregation, calming and sex pheromones. Pheromones helps in estrus detection, male attraction, reproductive behaviour, maternal bonding, territorial marking and stress responses. Experimental studies showed that pheromones can trigger puberty, overcome postpartum anoestrus, improves estrus exhibition, enhance libido and semen quality also. It stimulates proper penile erection and improve reproductive efficiency. Maternal appeasing pheromones also showed stress reduction, reduced aggressive behaviour, improved feed intake, growth and welfare in animals. Recent technological advancements have showed use of pheromones in animal reproduction. Rapid and non-invasive methods for estrus detection using portable electronic nose systems and urine-based pheromone detection kits are now a days available particularly for cattle and buffaloes. In addition, several synthetic pheromones have also been commercialized to improve reproductive efficiency, reduce stress associated with transport, weaning, and handling and to facilitate artificial insemination.
Institution: Kamdhenu University
Language: English
Subfield: Animal Science and Zoology
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204444786